‘An Education’s’ Lone Scherfig Unveils Plot of ‘60s-Set Swedish Spy Romance ‘Honeytrap’ From ‘Pressure Point’ Scribe Pelle Rådström

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Speaking to an assembly of film industry professionals on January 30th during the opening session of the Nordic Film Market Discovery program in Gothenburg, the acclaimed Danish director and writer Lone Scherfig described her upcoming project, “Honeytrap,” as a somewhat distorted or skewed version of the more romantic films she’s produced previously.

During a brief, live interview, the three-time Academy Award nominee who directed “An Education,” revealed that “Honeytrap” will mark her debut in Swedish cinema. The screenplay for this project is penned by Pelle Rådström, known for his work on Netflix’s “Black Crab” and the Swedish series “Pressure Point,” which recently won the Nordic Series Script Award in Göteborg.

In a more concise version:
The Oscar-nominated director of “An Education” announced that her first Swedish film, “Honeytrap,” is based on a script by Pelle Rådström, who has worked on Netflix’s “Black Crab” and the award-winning Swedish series “Pressure Point.

The script given to me by producer Rebecka Hamberger resonated deeply with me, as it encompassed a blend of thriller, romance, and comedy – elements I adore. What intrigued me further was its 60s setting, a period from my childhood that I’ve previously explored in works like ‘An Education.’ This script is exceptional, and I’m brimming with confidence about it, having played a significant role in its creation as both director and co-writer.

1968 serves as the backdrop for this tale, revolving around Max (aged 28), who undergoes training in a Stasi ‘Romeo’ operation designed to charm secretaries at prominent Western corporations. Inger, a young woman of 25 working for a weapons export company based in Stockholm, becomes an alluring target. The data he gathers proves vital to the Stasi, but as Max develops feelings for Inger, his deceit and hidden past become increasingly difficult to bear.

The central theme of the tale revolves around their romantic entanglement and the question of trust between them,” said Scherfig, expressing her excitement about exploring the historical context. “It’s 1968 – the backdrop includes the Russian invasion in Prague, which significantly impacts the narrative.” – This love story unfolds amidst the Cold War, drawing parallels to our current times. I am utterly captivated by this story and its ending is nothing short of shocking!

Revealing some character backgrounds, the director shared that Max hails from Berlin, where his Swedish mother resides. His father, a former Nazi officer, prevents him from returning to Sweden. “Max looks after both his mother, a widow from World War I, and his grandmother,” he added, “and finds employment in Stockholm due to his proficiency in Swedish.”

The film’s humor will be woven through the farcical nature of East German Stasi agents dispatched to Stockholm. Their mission? To learn about Western women’s sexual behavior and lifestyle. “They have a direct line to their Berlin headquarters, where they can call 24/7 for advice from psychiatrists on what to do, say, or behave,” the director emphasized, “there is a lot of humor and affection in this story.

As a cinephile delving into potential creative hurdles, I acknowledged that the aesthetic aspects might not pose a problem, but rather striking the ideal balance would be crucial. “This narrative is packed with power. Navigating Pelle’s [Rådström] wit will be essential. I aim to create a film that elicits laughter, tears, and an emotional connection – one that maintains its unique tone.

At Art & Bob, the creator behind “Pressure Point”, Hamberger, has revealed that the production is currently in its initial stages. With a projected cost of around €6.4 million ($6.6 million), they are actively seeking partnerships with potential financiers and distribution companies to help move the project forward.

In 2017, Lone Scherfig received a Dragon Award at the Göteborg Film Festival for her impressive filmography. Additionally, she was given the Audience Dragon Award for her film “Their Finest.

Among the 15 projects presented by the Discovery Co-Production Platform, “Honeytrap” was the one that didn’t compete for the fresh €15,000 ($15,600) Film Finances Scandinavia Award being given away today, January 30, in Gothenburg.

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2025-01-30 21:47