Interview with the director Dag Johan Haugerud, FRED Award 2025

The FRED Award, a heartfelt honor bestowed annually, recognizes exceptional talent in thoughtful and courageous filmmaking and acting. This year, the 2025 FRED Award was presented during the Venice Film Festival to director Dag Johan Haugerud, attending the festival as a jury member for the Giornate degli Autori section.

He is the third director in 15 years to receive this recognition, a testament to his film’s profound emotional resonance and intellectual depth. “After watching your film, viewers often leave with a different mindset—they feel elevated, better” noted the award’s motivation, praising the director’s capacity to evoke empathy and reflection through their nuanced characters and dialogues.

Themes of Humanity and Social Reflection

“Sex” stands out for its delicate handling of complex themes such as gender, sexuality, and social roles. The directors emphasize their intent to confront internal contradictions and societal expectations without resorting to spectacle. “We aim to invite empathy and understanding, showing characters as flawed and authentic” Dag Johan Haugerud explained. Their approach aligns with the principles of cinematic authenticity, valuing silence, ambiguity, and emotional realism—traits that resonate strongly with the Fred Award’s ideals.

Influences and Artistic Inspirations

Dag Johan Haugerud openly acknowledge their inspirations, citing filmmakers like Woody Allen, Bertolucci, and documentary master Fred Wiseman. “We admire Wiseman’s observational method—they achieve a perspective that’s both curious and respectful” said the director. The influence of Wiseman’s documentary style is evident in their meticulous portrayal of everyday life, capturing the subtle nuances of human behavior. Their admiration extends to a desire to craft films that serve as a mirror to society, encouraging reflection rather than spectacle.

The Power of Observation and Personal Experience

A key element in Dag Johan Haugerud‘s filmmaking is their ability to observe life closely. “Much of what I do is simply observing people around me” Dag Johan Haugerud shared. This pursuit of authenticity fuels their storytelling, allowing them to create characters and dialogues that feel genuine. Their background as novelists further enriches their narrative craft, blending literary depth with visual storytelling. They see both writing and filmmaking as two sides of the same artistic coin—intimate, creative, and rooted in language and observation.

Collaborative Creation and Set Atmosphere

Creating a film is a collective effort, and Dag Johan Haugerud emphasizes the importance of a supportive set environment. “Making sure everyone feels happy and free to express themselves is vital” he said. His approach involves fostering a collaborative atmosphere where actors and crew can bring their best to the project. The directors’ dedication to maintaining a positive environment translates into performances and images that are emotionally truthful and resonant.

The Trilogy and artistic continuity

Dag Johan Haugerud’s trilogy, comprised of “Sex”, “Love” and “Dreams” was shot over a relatively short period and showcased in major festivals, including Berlin and Venice. While the order of release varies across countries, the thematic continuity is deliberate. “We believe the trilogy should conclude with ‘Love,’ ending on a high, optimistic note” Dag Johan Haugerud explained. Watching the films sequentially reveals a journey of human connection, emotional complexity, and hope—core elements that define their cinematic voice.

Living and working in Oslo

Oslo, Dag Johan Haugerud’s hometown, features prominently in his films, embodying the city’s openness and cultural richness. “I grew up near Oslo, and the city hall, with its artwork and welcoming spirit, symbolises community for me” he shared. Its recurring presence in his work underscores a deep connection to place and identity, providing a backdrop that balances personal memory with universal themes.

Looking ahead

Despite his recent successes, Dag Johan Haugerud remains committed to ongoing projects—writing a new book, working on stage plays, and developing future films. “Winning awards like the Golden Bear is incredible, but it’s just part of the journey” he reflected. His dedication to exploring new creative avenues continually fuels his artistic evolution, promising more thought-provoking work to come.