Directed by Erik Poppe, Kongens Nei (The Kings Choice) is a Norwegian historical drama feature that was released on the 23. September 2016. The film has been a success in the Norwegian box office and has received critical praise.
“On the 9th of April 1940, German troops invade Oslo. The king of Norway is faced with a choice which will change his nation forever. The Kings Choice is an epic film about the real events which turned a brave man into the peoples king.”
I was fortunate to be recently invited to contribute to this production, producing a number of matte-paints of varying complexity. The most complex and involved being to take contemporary Oslo locations and referencing period photos, incorporate photographic, 3D and hand-painted elements so that the scenes, as near as possible, would resemble wartime Oslo.
Storgata, Oslo shot. The street as it looks today.
Storgata, Oslo Matte prior to grading. The task was to make the scene look as close to possible at it did in 1940. Compare to the shot above to see the changes implemented.
Karl Johan gate, Oslo as it looks today.
I was responsible for the Stortinget or Parliament, which is the building in the foreground. The greyed out area was to be handled by Rune Spaans. The task was to return the building to its appearance in 1940. Matte prior to the integration of the work by Rune Spaans and grading.
Historical photographic reference for Karl Johan gate, Oslo.
Shot of the building which would serve as the German Embassy in Oslo. Compare with the matte-painting below.
Matte of the German Embassy, Oslo prior to grading. Compare to the shot above to see the changes implemented.
Slottsparken, Oslo shot.
Slottsparken, Oslo Matte before grading.
King's Residence, London shot.
King's Residence, London matte.
Kongen's Nei teaser trailer
Copyright Paradox AS & Nordisk Film, Egmont AS.
