Why Don’t Scandinavian Countries Create a Lot of Shows/Movies?

Scandinavian countries, including Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland, have produced a range of acclaimed films and television shows. However, several factors contribute to the perception that they don’t create a lot of content compared to larger countries like the United States. This article explores key reasons behind this perception, focusing on population size, market size, cultural focus, funding and support, and language barriers.

Population Size

The total population of the Scandinavian countries is relatively small, which can limit the potential audience for local productions. This makes it more challenging to fund and sustain large-scale film and television projects. Despite this, Scandinavian countries have maintained a reputation for producing high-quality content. For instance, Finland has a population of around 5.5 million, which is significantly smaller than the US, yet it has produced internationally acclaimed movies like Kirja and Guldbaggen.

Market Size

The domestic market for films and shows is limited. Many Scandinavian productions rely on international sales or partnerships to be financially viable. A smaller domestic market can affect the quantity of content produced. However, international collaborations and distribution deals play a significant role in sustaining the industry.

Cultural Focus

Scandinavian countries often prioritize quality over quantity in their storytelling. They tend to produce fewer but more artistically ambitious projects, focusing on unique narratives, character development, and social themes. For example, shows like Nordic Noir and Revolver showcase nuanced storytelling and social commentary, which may not resonate as strongly in larger, more commercially focused markets.

Funding and Support

While there are funding bodies and grants available, the budgets for films and TV shows in Scandinavia are usually smaller than in Hollywood. This can impact the scale and number of productions. However, successful international sales can help offset these budget challenges. For instance, shows like The Bridge have gained international attention and funding, leading to more opportunities for Scandinavian creators.

Language Barriers

The primary languages spoken in these countries can limit their global reach. While many Scandinavians speak English, non-English-language films and shows may struggle to find audiences outside their home regions. This can make it more difficult for productions to gain international traction unless they are heavily marketed or distributed in English versions. Shows like The Killing, originally a Danish series, and later an American remake, highlight this challenge.

International Attention and Hollywood Remakes

Scandinavian shows and films often gain international attention for their distinct styles and themes. While this can lead to a focus on specific genres, it also presents an opportunity for Hollywood to engage with these unique stories. One notable example is the remake of the Danish series “Forbrydelsen” into the American series “The Killing.” However, American production companies often see the potential in these productions to capture a global audience, leading to remakes in English. For instance, Swedish author Stieg Larsson’s “Mnd der hader kvinder” was remade into the English-language film “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.” This practice sometimes leads to a loss of the unique cultural identity of the original productions.

Reinterpreting Success

Despite these challenges, Scandinavian countries have made significant contributions to global cinema and television. Recent successes like The Night Manager and Top of the Lake have demonstrated that there is a growing interest in Scandinavian content. Moreover, streaming platforms like Netflix have collaborated with Scandinavian countries, such as Denmark, to produce new projects. While these efforts are a start, they represent a small part of the overall industry.

It is clear that while Scandinavian countries face unique challenges in producing and distributing films and shows, their cultural focus, quality over quantity, and international popularity continue to make them a fascinating and innovative part of the global entertainment landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, we may see more collaboration and support that helps sustain and grow this vibrant sector.