Norway might be small in size, but our thriving film industry is making an impact on the big screens.
Norwegian movies and series reach audiences far beyond the fjords these days, with stories about historical events about the oil production or fantasy movies about the trolls… There’s something for everyone, no matter if you’re traveling to Norway soon and you want to ‘warm up’ or if you’re simply interested in evening entertainment.
We’ve put together a list of the best Norwegian movies and series to watch right now, many of which are available on Netflix or other major streaming platforms.
Action
This thriller takes place in the Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most famous UNESCO sites. It imagines the threat of a rockslide into the fjord, creating a devastating tsunami.
Where to watch: Netflix
Thriller/mystery
A luxury yacht, a journalist, a big mystery and a stellar cast. And best of all? Some scenes are set in our favorite fjord: The Hjørundfjord.
Where to watch: Netflix
War
Based on true events, this movie tells the story of Norway’s gold reserves being smuggled out of Oslo before the Nazis could get to it. It’s a piece of history many outside Norway haven’t heard about, but one that’s interesting to watch, especially if you’re planning on boarding the Golden Train yourself.
Where to watch: Netflix
Travel tip: Board the Golden Train from Åndalsnes to Bjorli and see the Romsdalen valley, including the Troll Wall.
Action
In the mountains of Dovre, a troll wakes up after centuries of slumber and decides to go to Oslo… This action-packed movie is a perfect visualization of Norwegian mythology and folklore. Be aware, you may start feeling for the troll!
Where to watch: Netflix
Travel tip: Go to Dovre National Park for the mountain landscapes.
War, action
Narvik, a strategic town during the Second World War, becomes the setting for this war drama. The movie doesn’t just capture the battles, but also the human cost for families caught in the middle.
Where to watch: Netflix
Adventure
This Academy Award–nominated adventure brings Thor Heyerdahl’s expedition across the Pacific Ocean to life. Although not set in Norway, it’s one of the most famous Norwegian films worldwide. The movie was nominated for an Oscar and a Golden Globe.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
Travel tip: Visit the Kon-Tiki Museum in Oslo, which has the original raft and artifacts from the expedition.
Action
Norway’s dramatic landscapes are crisscrossed by long tunnels and this disaster movie shows what happens when tragedy strikes inside one. It’s a move that makes you think twice before your next drive!
Where to watch: Netflix and SkyShowtime
Travel tip: Drive through some of Norway’s impressive road tunnels, like the Lærdal Tunnel (the world’s longest road tunnel at 24.5 km).
Thriller, documentary
This intense movie depicts the events that happened on July 22nd in 2011: a black day in Norwegian history. A radical right-wing terrorist plants bombs outside the Prime Minister office in Oslo and later shoots students at a political-party’s summer camp on an island. A movie and sad reality that hits close to many Norwegian hearts.
Where to watch: Netflix
Comedy, mythology
This Netflix comedy pokes fun at Viking culture while still giving plenty of fjord backdrops and action. It’s a bit crazy, but clever, and very Norwegian dry humour.
Where to watch: Netflix
Travel tip: Filmed in Rogaland, Western Norway, where Viking history still runs deep. There are many Viking museums across Norway, for example, Lofotr Viking Museum in Lofoten.
Adventure drama, mythology
Though not solely Norwegian, Vikings became a hit for the raw storytelling and Norse-inspired history. If you haven’t already binged it, it’s a must-watch if you like drama, adventure and mythology.
Where to watch: Netflix
Drama, mythology
A teen drama with a supernatural twist.
Where to watch: Netflix
Historical drama
Set in Stavanger in the 1970s, this drama captures the transformation of Norway when oil was discovered. It’s a personal story of relationships and a portrait of a nation about to change forever.
Where to watch: Apple TV and Prime Video
Travel tip: Visit Stavanger, Norway’s oil capital. We also recommend the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to dive into the real history behind the series.
Drama, satire
This series takes a look at wealth, power and inequality, with a Norwegian twist. It’s stylish, smart, and great if you’re looking for something fresh and kind of like Succession.
Where to watch: Apple TV
A political thriller
Set in a near future when Norway’s oil production is at stake, Occupied imagines what happens when foreign powers move in.
Where to watch: Prime Video
Royal drama
This historical series follows Crown Princess Märtha of Norway during WWII and her relationship with the U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It shows a lesser-known side of Norwegian wartime history.
Where to watch: Prime Video
Travel tip: Visit the Royal Palace in Oslo or visit Skaugum, the Crown Prince’s residence near the city
Comedy
One of Netflix’s first originals, Lilyhammer tells the story of a New York gangster who relocates to Lillehammer under witness protection. Watching him try to adapt to small-town Norwegian life is hilarious, awkward and oddly heartwarming.
Where to watch: Netflix
Travel tip: Explore Lillehammer, a mountain town famous for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics
Crime
Based on Jørn Lier Horst’s crime novels, Wisting follows a police detective as he tackles complex cases. It’s perfect for fans of Scandinavian crime dramas.
Where to watch: Prime Video
Crime, drama
Jo Nesbø has established himself as one of the most versatile authors in the Nordics. From endearing children’s books to gripping thrillers, his storytelling range is truly impressive. Now, with Netflix adapting his acclaimed Harry Hole series, viewers can follow the famous detective as he scours Oslo’s underworld to solve chilling murder cases. If you’re a fan of gritty Nordic noir, this series deserves a spot on your watchlist.
Where to watch: Netflix
Travel tip: Follow in Harry Hole’s footsteps through Oslo. Visit his favorite hangout, Restaurant Schrøder at St. Hanshaugen.
Romance
On the lighter side, this Netflix feel-good series follows Johanne. She’s a nurse who promises her family she’ll bring a boyfriend home for Christmas. It’s a heartwarming watch and full of smalltown Norwegian charm.
Where to watch: Netflix
Travel tip: The series was filmed in Røros, a UNESCO-listed mining town.
We know Norway on the back of our hands. Are you a fan of a movie or you simply want to visit some interesting filming locations? We know them and would love to include our favorites, as well as yours, into a customized tour.
We also have book recommendations if you rather flip a page.
These Norwegian movies are available on Netflix: Troll, The Tunnel, Narvik, 22 July, Gold Run, The Wave
Home for Christmas was filmed in Røros, the Kampen neighborhood in Oslo and the rest on a movie set.
The movie Troll is based on real Norwegian folklore to some degree, yes. Norwegian children grow up with troll folklore.
More than you might expect, but Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, Dune, various James Bond movies and several Mission Impossible movies, just to name a few. Norway’s nature lends itself perfectly to be a filming location for many action movies.
Some scenes of HBO’s Succession were filmed in Norway.
This blog post was last reviewed and updated on November 26, 2025.
Have a look at our recommended tours tied to this post.
Anne moved from the Netherlands to Norway in 2000, together with her husband Rogier. The untouched nature, fresh air, and safe environment felt like coming home. She loves to go on soft adventures with Rogier and their three children, now young adults, exploring places all over Norway. Living in Norway as a foreigner gives her the opportunity to be a tourist here even after 23 years. She designs many different vacations, from family adventures to luxurious honeymoons.
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