Greenland Welcomes ‘Welcome to the Moon’
From Thursday through Saturday this week, the much-anticipated film Welcome to the Moon will make its world premiere at Katuaq in Nuuk, Greenland. The announcement came from the film’s director, Aske Bang, who has garnered attention for his previous work, including an Oscar nomination in 2016 for the short film Silent Nights.
Bang’s choice to premiere the film in Greenland carries a heartfelt message of solidarity with its residents, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions. “I have chosen to hold the world premiere in Greenland to show my sympathy for the Greenlandic people, who have long faced threats from the world’s most powerful man,” Bang expressed.
His sentiments were echoed by Stanislav Sevcik, a key collaborator on the project. “It’s fantastic that we will have a world premiere on the world’s largest island,” he said, highlighting that while the film was filmed on the small Danish island of Møn, its message carries a significant weight in Greenland.
Described as a “friendship comedy,” Welcome to the Moon features an impressive cast, including Mads Mikkelsen as a voice actor, alongside Peter Aalbæk Jensen and Sus Wilkins. Notably, the late Erik Clausen makes a brief appearance, marking what is said to be his final role on film.
In a special touch, both Bang and Sevcik will be attending the premiere in Nuuk, eager to engage with the local audience. “The Greenlanders need to relax and find some joy amidst the many threats facing their country. We come to spread laughter and a good atmosphere,” Bang remarked in a recent press release.
“This is quite special because it took ten years to make,” he added, reflecting on the long journey to this moment. “I’ve been waiting for this day since the project began.”
As excitement builds, Bang and Sevcik have prepared a video greeting to share with their audience, which can be viewed via the provided link. Aske Bang concluded, “I am thrilled to be here, and I am so happy.”
In the heart of Nuuk, the world premiere promises to be not only a celebration of film but also a poignant acknowledgment of the Greenlandic spirit.