Onkel Jens will be the opening film at Kosmorama 2025
Kosmorama is proud to present the drama comedy Onkel Jens as the opening film for the 21st edition of the festival.
"Onkel Jens" to Open Kosmorama 2025
It was recently announced that Onkel Jens will have its world premiere at one of the world’s biggest film festivals, South by Southwest (SXSW) in March. Now, the team is set to board a plane from Austin, Texas, heading straight for the red carpet in Trondheim, where the film will have its Norwegian premiere as the opening film of Kosmorama 2025.
"We at Kosmorama are thrilled to open the festival with this funny and thought-provoking film, which will have its grand European premiere and homecoming right here with us," says Silje Engeness, festival director at Kosmorama.
"It’s an Honor"
Onkel Jens marks the feature film debut of Brwa Vahabpour, who grew up in Trondheim.
"There is no place in Norway where I would rather premiere Onkel Jens than at home in Trondheim, and it is an honor to have it as the opening film at Kosmorama," says Vahabpour.
He adds with a smile:
"A few years ago, I actually tried to get a job at a cinema in Trondheim. I didn’t succeed at the time, but now I’ve finally found another way into the theaters!"
Brwa Vahabpour has previously made a name for himself as an episode director on the NRK series Jordbrukerne, as well as through a number of acclaimed short films, many of which have been screened at Minimalen Short Film Festival in Trondheim. In 2018, he also received a talent grant from SpareBank 1 SMN.
About the Film
What do you do when an uncle you haven’t seen in years suddenly shows up at your door in the middle of the night?
Teacher Akam is forced to confront his cultural roots when he takes in his uncle, Jens, who unexpectedly moves into his shared apartment. Akam has no idea why his uncle has arrived or how long he intends to stay. As time passes, he starts to wonder what really lies behind his uncle’s sudden visit—and the truth may have unforeseen consequences for them both.
Onkel Jens is a heartwarming drama/comedy that will make you laugh and reflect. The film explores themes of second-generation immigration, culture clashes, and love—all central elements in Brwa Vahabpour’s feature debut.
About Kosmorama
This year’s festival runs from March 17–23, featuring a diverse program of more than 80 films from around the world. The lineup includes everything from uplifting feel-good movies to thought-provoking films that engage, challenge, and offer new perspectives on the world we live in.
The opening film, Onkel Jens, will be screened on March 17, the first day of the festival at 18:15 and 20:30.
The film has a 9-year age limit.
NB! This is a special screening and is not included in the festival pass.
