Frenetic Films Secures Swiss Rights for "Solomamma" Ahead of Locarno Film Festival
As the pre-Locarno Film Festival buzz intensifies, Zurich-based Frenetic Films, a leading name in arthouse and crossover film distribution in Switzerland, has landed a significant distribution deal for the highly anticipated film "Solomamma." This compelling title is set to have its world premiere in the main International Competition at the Locarno Film Festival, which runs from August 6 to 16.
The deal was facilitated by Playtime, a renowned pan-European sales agent and production powerhouse, which has also arranged pre-sales of "Solomamma" to Italy (Teodora), Benelux (Imagine), Israel (New Cinema), and Hungary (Budapest Film). Additionally, Bacon Pictures Oslo, the film’s lead production company, has partnered with Scanbox for distribution in Scandinavia as part of a broader collaboration.
"Solomamma" marks the directorial debut of Norway’s Janicke Askevold, following her made-for-TV project "Sammen Alene." Notably, this film is the first Norwegian entry at Locarno since 1975’s "Wives." Its selection comes as no surprise, given its strong cast, which includes Lisa Loven Kongsli from "Force Majeure" and Herbert Nordrum of "The Worst Person in the World." The film has already garnered attention at the Göteborg Festival’s Discovery (2024) and Works in Progress (2025) sections, as well as at Les Arcs, where it was recognized as one of the festival’s standout titles and won the 22 Music Award.
"Solomamma" is a poignant drama infused with comedic elements, centering on Edith, a 40-year-old journalist and single mother. When the identity of her son’s sperm donor, Neils—a creative mind behind a popular video game—unexpectedly comes to light, Edith embarks on a journey to meet him under the guise of conducting an interview. As their relationship deepens, her fabricated story complicates her life and the lives of those around her. Askevold describes the film as a "deeply personal journey" that explores themes of love, duty, and identity.
Co-written by Askevold alongside Jørgen Færøy Flasnes of "My Wonderful Stranger" and Mads Stegger from "The Last Paradise on Earth," "Solomamma" joins a prestigious lineup at Frenetic Films, which also includes Cannes Palme d’Or winner "A Simple Accident" and Grand Prix laureate "Sentimental Value."
“We are thrilled to have Frenetic as our distribution partner for ‘Solomamma’ in Switzerland,” said Sébastien Beffa, co-CEO of Playtime. “Our long-standing relationship gives us confidence that they will effectively promote this contemporary film, showcasing the sharp insights of a promising director.”
Frenetic Films’ co-director, Mischa Schiwow, added, “We’ve been following the exciting wave of Norwegian filmmaking for years. After successful releases like ‘Louder than Bombs’ and ‘The Worst Person in the World,’ we are excited to bring Janicke Askevold’s ‘Solomamma’ to Swiss audiences.”
Produced by Rebekka Rognøy, Magnus Nygaard Albertsen, and Gary Cranner for Bacon Pictures Oslo, "Solomamma" also features co-producers from Lithuania’s Dansu Films, Latvia’s Mistrus Media, and Finland’s It’s Alive, with Bacon Pictures CPH from Denmark lending support. The film’s cinematography is handled by Torjus Thesen, with editing by Patrick Larsgaard.
Stay tuned for more updates on "Solomamma" as it prepares to captivate audiences at the Locarno Film Festival!
