Viaplay to premiere a new Norwegian original, "The Fortress"

Viaplay Original unveiled its most recent title from Norway. "The Fortress" is set premier on Viaplay in 2023.“Our next Norwegian Viaplay Original might be set 15 years in the future, but is relevant to audiences everywhere today," Filippa Wallestam, NENT Group Chief Content Officer, said. "History repeatedly shows us that what starts as a wall, ends as a prison. This unique and compelling production is the latest example of Viaplay’s commitment to Nordic storytelling that goes beyond borders – in this case, literally.”

"The Fortress" is written by Linn-Jeanethe Kyed and author John Kåre Råke, and directed by Cecilie Mosli and Mikkel Brænne Sandemose. The series is produced by Synnøve Hørsdal and Ales Ree for Maipo Film and executive produced by Kari Moen Kristiansen for Viaplay. Filming is currently taking place in Bergen. The title is distributed globally by TrustNordisk.

Tobias Santelmann,  Selome Emnetu and UK star Russell Tovey lead a talented Nordic and international cast in the eight-part show. The dystopian drama that depicts the fateful consequences of Norway’s decision to isolate itself and its citizens from the rest of the world. In the year 2037, an enormous wall surrounds Norway, where its people enjoy privileged and sheltered lives in a self-sufficient Nordic paradise. But when a deadly pandemic breaks out, the inhabitants soon realize that the wall intended to protect, is instead holding them prisoner.

“Cecilie has directed most of the scenes involving my character, and she is talented, generous and committed,"  Santelmann said. "My experience is that both Mikkel and Cecilie have great respect for each other, and collaborate and complement each other well. The situation in the world today means that ‘The Fortress’ feels uncomfortably close to home.”