The 54th Norwegian International Film Festival opens in Haugesund on 22 August with the world premiere of Erik Poppe's "Beloved" ("Kjærast"), based on the only original screenplay by Nobel laureate Jon Fosse. The festival, running until 28 August, showcases Norway's film talent following the country's footballing success, with festival director Tonje Hardersen describing 2026 as a moment when "all eyes are on Norway".

The programme features 84 feature films and 20 shorts, including 22 Norwegian features and 15 shorts. Notable selections include closing film "The Murder of Benjamin", about the 2001 racially motivated killing of teenager Benjamin Hermansen; documentary "The Voice That Vanished", about artist Helene Bøksle's music being used by mass murderer Anders Behring Breivik; and Cristian Mungiu's Palme d'Or winner "Fjord", starring Renate Reinsve, which opens the festival's New Nordic Films industry sidebar on 25 August. Hardersen noted that scrutiny of cracks in Norwegian society is a recurring theme across this year's selections.