The hit movies caught my attention – the chairman of the board answers the questions

Allan Hansen

WHY DID EGMONT BUY SOLAR FILMS?

Nordisk Film / Egmont bought half of Solar Films back in 2007, because it was the strongest production company in Finland. The hit movies like “Hellsinki”, “Bad Boys”, “The Tough Ones” and several others convinced us. On the other hand, the TV production of Solar was suitable for our strategy at the time.

WHY WAS SOLAR TELEVISON SOLD TO THE FRENCH COMPANY BANIJAY IN 2009?

To put it frankly, giving up TV productions happened, because the offer made by the buyer was tempting. We also got some stocks in exchange and it’s great to see that the Finnish TV company we sold is still doing very well.

CAN YOU MENTION THE BIGGEST HIGHLIGHTS AND LOW POINTS FROM THE PAST YEARS?

The most recent cause for pride and joy is the box office of “The Grump”; it has broken the half a million milestone. The big disappointment is the crash of “Mannerheim”, despite all the money and labor invested – but you must never say never in the movie business.

WHAT IS THE MOST UNFORGETTABLE MOMENT WITH YOU AND SOLAR FILMS?

From the many occasions, one immediately jumps to my mind. Markus Selin invited me to make a speech at the gala premiere of a Vares movie (The Kiss of Evil). I thought I’d be giving the speech in a small movie theater – and found out it was a massive ice stadium, with an audience over 5000. I only realized that when I got there. Another great example of the Finnish sense of humor!

HAS SOLAR FILMS BEEN A PROFITABLE INVESTMENT FOR NORDISK FILM?

To be honest, I haven’t made calculations about that. But I can say that we have enjoyed our solid co-operation with Markus Selin and Jukka Helle. I hope that it will continue in the future. Solar Films has produced strong movies for large audiences. I am very happy with our investment.