Don't Call Me Mama to compete for Crystal Globe in Karlovy Vary
Nina Knag’s feature debut Don't Call Me Mama, starring acclaimed actress Pia Tjelta and Tarek Zayat, has been invited to the Crystal Globe Competition at this year's 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (July 4th - 12th 2025). Will the spectacular victory march for Norwegian cinema continue with this new film?
In Don’t Call Me Mama a popular high school teacher faces the ultimate test when she falls in love with a young asylum seeker, sparking a forbidden relationship with shattering consequences.
A story of passion, power and shifting sympathies where the line between love and exploitation blurs
Knag will attend the world premiere screenings of her film and will be joined by actors Pia Tjelta and Tarek Zayat, as well as the film’s DOP Alvilde Horjen Naterstad (FNF).
Don’t Call Me Mama by Nina Knag
Synopsis: Middle-aged Eva is a popular teacher and the wife of a local politician. While volunteering at an asylum centre to support his campaign, she meets Amir, an 18-year-old refugee and aspiring poet. Impressed by his talent, Eva mentors him and even invites him to live with them.
As her marriage unravels, Eva grows dangerously close to Amir. When she learns he’s lied about his past, she tries to cut ties - but her desire overpowers her judgment. They begin an illicit affair which quickly consumes her, leading her to neglect her husband, her job and her best friend.
Thanks to Eva’s support, Amir receives a residency permit and a shot at his dream. But when she discovers he’s involved with one of her students, her obsession turns dark. As rumours swirl and her life collapses, Eva faces a harrowing choice: protect herself or expose Amir’s secret and risk destroying him.
About the director: Nina Knag is an award-winning writer and director known for several acclaimed short films, including It’s Alright (2016) and The First Days (2019). She directed episodes of the youth series Rumours (NRK, 2023) and is currently developing her original drama series Yosef Was Here, produced by Monster Scripted. Nina also runs her own casting agency and teaches acting. Don’t Call Me Mama is her feature debut.
About the cast: Pia Tjelta (Eva) is an acclaimed Norwegian actress known for her powerful performances in both film and television. Her talent and dedication have established her as a prominent figure in Scandinavian cinema and television.Tjelta made her screen debut in the cult hit Mongoland (2001) and gained wider recognition for her role in the award-winning film Buddy (2003).
Tarek Zayat (Amir) is known for his compelling performances and rising presence in both films and TV series. He gained recognition for his role in Enforcement (2020) and further showcased his versatility in the acclaimed series Boys (2022). Soon to come is his performance in Crossing Lines (2025). He is regarded as a promising upcoming talent in Danish cinema and television.
About the producers: Don’t Call Me Mama is produced by Eléonore Anselme and Ingrid Skagestad for The Global Ensemble Drama, the company created in 2021 by the internationally- acclaimed director Per-Olav Sørensen, best known for directing such miniseries as Nobel (2016), The Saboteurs (2015) and The Playlist (2022). The company is active both in the Nordic region and internationally, with offices in Norway, Sweden, and the UK, producing shorts, feature films, documentaries and television drama
Norwegian wave: Last year, the Norwegian film Loveable (Elskling) won five awards, the maximum number a film can win at Karlovy Vary. Norway has been stacking up awards in recent years - it’s been nothing short of spectacular! In addition to the aforementioned Loveable, this year alone Dreams, the grand finale of Dag Johan Haugerud’s trilogy, claimed the prestigious Golden Bear at the Berlinale, while Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value took home the Grand Prix at Cannes. And that’s only the tip of the iceberg: Norway isn’t just winning, it’s dominating. Sitting proudly at the top of the World Film Fest Awards ranking, it’s safe to say the Norwegian wave seems unstoppable. Will Don’t Call Me Mama be the next addition on the growing list?
Screener link: A screener link for (p)review purposes is available on request.
Interviews: Nina Knag, as well as Pia Tjelta, Tarek Zayat and DOP Alvilde Horjen Naterstad will be available for interviews in Karlovy Vary. Knag is also available for interviews prior to the festival. (send an interview request)
International sales: REinvent
EPK Don't call me mama_final.pdf
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Suggested social media tags to add to your coverage of Don't Call Me Mama: #DontCallMeMama ; #KVIFF2025 ; #ForbiddenLove ; #EvaAndAmir ; #LoveAndConsequences ; #HiddenPassions ; #PowerAndDesire ; #LoveWithoutLabels ; #LoveAcrossBorders ; #EuropeanCinema ; #TheFiveNordics ; #NorwegianFilms ; #NorskFilminstitut ; #WomenInFilm
Christian De Schutter
