Godvakker-Maren

About This Movie

So, Godvakker-Maren is this interesting piece from 1940, though the director's name seems lost to time, which adds to its charm, I suppose. The film's atmosphere is painted with a sort of bittersweet nostalgia, as it follows these two girls venturing into the big city for work in a food store. There's this underlying tension, particularly with the owner's wife feeling unwell and the owner who's quite taken with the girls. I find the pacing to be quite deliberate, allowing the viewer to soak in the characters' experiences. The practical effects are minimal but serve the story well, and the performances feel genuine, capturing the essence of the era. It’s a gem for those who appreciate adaptations of literary works, especially Oscar Braathen's novel.

Godvakker-Maren is quite a rarity in collector circles, with its prints often hard to come by. It was released in various formats over the years, but most collectors seem to lean towards the original theatrical version. The scarcity of this film only heightens its appeal, making it a noteworthy title for those interested in Norwegian cinema or adaptations of classic literature. It's definitely a conversation starter among collectors, touching on themes of youth and city life.