‘Too many stories exist only to make you think you’re on the right side’: Cristian Mungiu on Fjord, his disquieting social drama

Cristian Mungiu discusses his film "Fjord," which explores cultural differences and the impact of globalization on family dynamics. The film follows a Romanian-Norwegian couple facing challenges in Norway, particularly when child protection services intervene due to cultural misunderstandings. Mungiu reflects on his past experiences advocating for European cinema against homogenization and critiques both liberal and conservative values. "Fjord" won the Palme d'Or at Cannes, but has received mixed reviews, with some critics accusing it of bias. Mungiu emphasizes his desire for nuanced storytelling that avoids clear moral dichotomies, aiming to provoke self-reflection in viewers.