If you loved the heartfelt and visually stunning 'Norwegian Dream (2023)', you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and shows that share similar themes of self-discovery, breathtaking landscapes, and emotional depth. Whether you're drawn to Nordic storytelling or simply crave more cinematic gems like this one, our curated list will guide you to your next favorite watch.

Maurice (1987)
Description: 'Maurice' and 'Norwegian Dream' both depict the challenges of living authentically in a society that rejects same-sex love. The films are period pieces that use their historical settings to explore timeless themes of love and identity. The emotional depth and beautiful cinematography in both films make them enduring classics.
Fact: The film is based on E.M. Forster's novel, which was written in 1913-14 but published posthumously in 197James Wilby, Hugh Grant, and Rupert Graves all made their film debuts in 'Maurice'. The film won the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival.


Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Description: Both 'Brokeback Mountain' and 'Norwegian Dream' tell stories of forbidden love and the pain of unfulfilled desires. The films are set against breathtaking natural landscapes that mirror the emotional turmoil of the characters. The themes of societal constraints, personal sacrifice, and the enduring power of love are central to both films.
Fact: Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal did not meet before filming to create authentic tension. The film was based on a short story by Annie Proulx. It won three Academy Awards, including Best Director for Ang Lee.


The Danish Girl (2015)
Description: 'The Danish Girl' and 'Norwegian Dream' both explore themes of identity and self-acceptance. The films portray the struggles of individuals who are marginalized by society but find strength in their authenticity. The sensitive and compassionate storytelling in both films highlights the universal need for love and understanding.
Fact: The film is inspired by the lives of Danish painters Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener. Eddie Redmayne spent a year researching and preparing for his role. Lili Elbe was one of the first known recipients of sex reassignment surgery.


A Single Man (2009)
Description: Both 'A Single Man' and 'Norwegian Dream' delve into themes of grief, love, and the search for meaning. The films use striking visual aesthetics to reflect the inner emotional states of their protagonists. The introspective and melancholic tones of both films create a deeply moving experience.
Fact: This was Tom Ford's directorial debut. Colin Firth received an Academy Award nomination for his performance. The film is based on Christopher Isherwood's 1964 novel of the same name.


The Way He Looks (2014)
Description: Similar to 'Norwegian Dream', 'The Way He Looks' is a tender story of first love and self-discovery. Both films feature protagonists who are navigating their identities and relationships with sensitivity and depth. The intimate storytelling and heartfelt performances in both films create a powerful emotional impact.
Fact: The film is a feature-length expansion of the 2010 short film 'I Don't Want to Go Back Alone'. It won the Teddy Award for Best LGBT Feature Film at the Berlin International Film Festival. The director, Daniel Ribeiro, is openly gay and drew from his own experiences.


Carol (2015)
Description: 'Carol' and 'Norwegian Dream' both explore the complexities of love and desire in the face of societal expectations. The films are visually stunning, with meticulous attention to period detail and emotional nuance. The restrained yet powerful performances in both films convey deep longing and emotional resonance.
Fact: The film is based on Patricia Highsmith's 1952 novel 'The Price of Salt'. Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara's performances earned widespread acclaim, with Mara winning the Best Actress award at Cannes. The film was shot on Super 16mm film to achieve a vintage look.


Moonlight (2016)
Description: 'Moonlight' shares with 'Norwegian Dream' a profound exploration of identity, masculinity, and love. Both films use visually stunning cinematography to convey the inner emotional worlds of their protagonists. The themes of isolation, longing, and the search for connection are central to both narratives, making them deeply resonant and moving.
Fact: Moonlight is the first LGBTQ+ film and the first film with an all-black cast to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. The film is based on Tarell Alvin McCraney's unpublished semi-autobiographical play 'In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue'. Barry Jenkins wrote the screenplay in just ten days.


Love, Simon (2018)
Description: 'Love, Simon' and 'Norwegian Dream' both focus on the coming-of-age experiences of young men navigating their sexuality. While 'Love, Simon' is more lighthearted, both films address the challenges of coming out and the universal desire for acceptance and love. The emotional honesty and relatable characters make both films deeply engaging.
Fact: 'Love, Simon' is the first major studio film to focus on a gay teenage romance. The film is based on the novel 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda' by Becky Albertalli. The soundtrack features songs from artists like Troye Sivan and Khalid.


God's Own Country (2017)
Description: Like 'Norwegian Dream', 'God's Own Country' is a poignant story of love and self-acceptance set against a rugged, rural backdrop. Both films depict the struggles of young men coming to terms with their sexuality in environments that are not always accepting. The raw, naturalistic performances and understated storytelling in both films create a deeply emotional and authentic viewing experience.
Fact: This was Francis Lee's debut feature film. The film won the World Cinema Directing Award at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. The actors performed many of the farm tasks themselves to add authenticity.


Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Description: Similar to 'Norwegian Dream' (2023), 'Call Me by Your Name' explores themes of self-discovery and first love in a picturesque setting. Both films capture the emotional intensity and vulnerability of young love, with a focus on personal growth and the bittersweet nature of fleeting relationships. The lush cinematography and evocative soundtracks in both films enhance the emotional depth and immersive experience.
Fact: The film is based on the 2007 novel of the same name by André Aciman. Timothée Chalamet learned to speak Italian and play the piano for his role. The peach scene was inspired by a real-life experience of director Luca Guadagnino.
