Eirik Tveiten takes us on a night to remember for two contrasting figures when one of them decides to commandeer a tram in a Norwegian town to try and go the distance in the comedy-drama short NIGHT RIDE.
Film And TV Now spoke with the film-maker about the short.
The short focuses on key gender issues. What was the starting point for the short?
First, we were looking at a general theme of harassment towards minorities. Then we narrowed it down to gender issues.
Tell us about the logistics of securing a tram for a short film.
That was quite challenging.
First, we had to find the right tram company that would help us out with the project. Naturally, we needed to take care of safety towards our staff and actors.
Then we put a great deal of effort into planning the shooting schedule since a lot of scenes were shot during regular traffic on the tracks – the production plan required careful consideration.
Tell us about your cast.
Sigrid Husjord – the main actress (Ebba) came to our open audition in Trondheim (location), and I was immediately convinced she was the right person for this part.
For the part of Ariel (Transperson), we searched quite some time until a friend of mine suggested Ola Hoemsnes Sandum. He was only 16 at the time and not a trained actor, but when I finally met him, I was deeply impressed.
Tell us about your production team.
Four of us (our central crew) came along from Oslo. I have collaborated with Vegard Landsverk, our talented cinematographer, on serval films before. Otherwise, the rest of the crew were skilled local professionals from Trondheim.
Where did you shoot and for how long?
We shot in central Norway; the city of Trondheim – for 5 days.
You have directed fourteen short films. Tell us how you have evolved as a filmmaker.
I was originally a trained actor and for many years I had a dream of making films. It took some time to get started. Now I feel I’m making progress with every film I make.
What issues and themes are you keen to explore in your future work?
Good question. Our next short film “Camping in Paradise” is a comedy revolving around intimacy issues and nudity – as a couple is compelled to spend the night at a nudist camping site.
What is the Norwegian film industry like at the present time and what are your hopes for the future?
At the moment there is a lot of great work being created in Norway.
Who and what are your key cinematic influences?
I personally admire cinematographer Roger Deakins, and the work of Italian director Michelangelo Antonioni.
Would you like to expand on the issues and themes explored in this short into a feature idea?
Yes, for sure! These are among the themes that I am working on in my future projects.
How has the festival circuit helped your film?
It has been amazing! Once the film gets “rolling” it gathers momentum. The film has attended many great festivals and won quite a few prestigious prizes. Amongst them the Best short narrative at Tribeca Film Festival
Finally, what are you most proud of about this short?
So many things to be proud of. At the moment I am overwhelmed and very grateful for all the beautiful reviews the film has received, and I think is amazing that the film has reached out to so many people.
