MTG preps ‘biggest ever’ drama from Norway

MTG’s production arm is lining up a drama series for broadcaster TV3 and SVOD service that’s billed as “one of Norway’s biggest ever” dramas.

The total budget of MTG Studios’ Wisting was not revealed, but the Norwegian Film Institute is alone investing NOK10.5 million (US$1.3 million).

MTG Studios has been ramping up production to supply the Nordic-wide Viaplay with original content that steals potential customers from Netflix, TV4 Group’s C More and HBO Nordic.

Wisting stars Sven Nordin (Valkyrien) and is based on Jørn Hier Horst’s books that carry the same name, which have sold more than 1.2 million copies in Norway.

The story follows relentless Larvik detective William Wisting, who finds himself pitted against a killer whose double murder interrupts Christmas.

Katarina Launing (Kick It!) and Trygve Allister Diesen (Valkyrien) are co-creators and directors, with the latter also writing with Katherine Valen Zeiner (Eyewitness).

Cinenord Drama and Denmark-based Good Company Films are coproducing.

“Our ambition is to become the Nordic region’s leading producer of original content, and we’re honoured that our unique storytelling capabilities have been recognized by the Norwegian Film Institute,” said Jakob Mejlhede, executive VP and head of programming and content development at Sweden-based MTG (pictured).

“Occupied, MTG’s first Norwegian Viaplay original, is already thrilling audiences across the Nordic region, and now we’re creating another incredible series that showcases Norway’s very best creative talents.”

The news comes soon after MTG rejigged its entertainment business, handing Alexander Bastin control of Viaplay. The former chief, Ira Gladnikoff, exited as a result of the restructure.