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There are bonds that seem to break apart, yet somehow find the strength to be rebuilt just when everything appears lost. This is the message of Back to Tottori by Arild Østin Ommundsen and Silje Salomonsen, competing in the Elements +10 section, which deeply moved audiences in the Sala Sordi with its heartfelt and delicate story, perfectly reflecting the theme of the 56th edition of the #GiffoniFilmFestival.
Accompanying the screening were the filmmakers, husband and wife Arild Østin Ommundsen and Silje Salomonsen, along with their daughters, young actresses Vega and Billie, and production assistant Iben Østin. They received a warm welcome from the #Giffoners, who were eager to discover the behind-the-scenes story of a film that weaves together growth, pain, and hope.
The film follows Billie, a determined twelve-year-old girl who longs to reconnect with her older sister Vega, now overwhelmed by a deep sense of despair that prevents her from imagining a future. When Billie decides to venture into the mountains with her father’s old camera, the sisters’ journey becomes a path of freedom, courage, and rediscovery of their deepest bond.
Among the questions from the jurors, Livia asked whether the story was inspired by real events. “No, it isn’t based on a true story,” revealed Billie Østin, “but I can say that the most emotional scenes were difficult for us because, in real life, we don’t cry very often.”
Marco, meanwhile, focused on the meaning of the camera, a central element of the story. “Yes, it certainly represents a container of memories,” explained Arild Østin Ommundsen, “but it also symbolizes the opportunity to appreciate what is right in front of us and to look toward the future.”
The directors also shared how the project came to life. Originally conceived as a sequel to their previous film and shot in southern Norway, it was inspired by a dream shared by many children. “We wanted to tell the story of a dream that many children have: the desire to escape, to discover the world without the constant presence of adults, while building relationships and friendships. In the film, Vega’s sadness stems from her inability to see a future. As you grow up, you may face similar challenges yourselves. That’s why we chose to focus on the relationship between two sisters. It’s beautiful to show how a bond can weaken, but also how it can be rediscovered and become even stronger.”
The young actresses also reflected on their experience during filming, recalling both the emotional and the fun moments. “We loved making this film,” said Billie and Vega Østin. “Some scenes were very challenging, but we had so much fun, especially the ones set in the park. We also used very simple special effects, like the foam camera featured in one of the scenes.”
Through emotion, smiles, and thoughtful reflections, Back to Tottori reminded the young jurors that even when tomorrow seems out of reach and relationships appear destined to fade away, there is always a chance to find the way back. Because, just as the theme of #Giffoni56 reminds us, “impossible things” often begin with the courage to believe they can come true.