It goes without saying that we’ve been huge fans of Joachim Trier, and his intimate dramas. “Reprise,” “Oslo, August 31” and “Louder Than Bombs” all impressed us with their small scale and big impact, but we’re very excited to see the filmmaker shift gears. For his next project, Trier is going supernatural, and the Toronto International Film Festival will be the place to see the International Premiere of “Thelma.”
Starring Eili Harboe, Okay Kaya, Henrik Rafaelsen, and Ellen Dorrit Petersen, the story follows a young woman who simultaneously starts experiencing seizures, being drawn to another woman, and discovering supernatural abilities. Here’s the official synopsis:
Thelma, a shy young student, has just left her religious family in a small town on the west coast of Norway to study at a university in Oslo. While at the library one day, she experiences a violent, unexpected seizure. Soon after, she finds herself intensely drawn toward Anja, a beautiful young student who reciprocates Thelma’s powerful attraction. As the semester continues, Thelma becomes increasingly overwhelmed by her intense feelings for Anja – feelings she doesn’t dare acknowledge, even to herself – while at the same time experiencing even more extreme seizures. As it becomes clearer that the seizures are a symptom of inexplicable, often dangerous, supernatural abilities, Thelma is confronted with tragic secrets of her past, and the terrifying implications of her powers.
After debuting at TIFF, “Thelma” will make its U.S. bow at Fantastic Fest, screen at the New York Film Festival, and open in cinemas via The Orchard on November 10th. Check out our exclusive poster for the film below.
