Constantin Film's Smilla’s Sense of Snow Finds a Frozen Home in Finland

Constantin Film’s latest production, Smilla’s Sense of Snow, takes audiences deep into Finland’s icy landscapes. The film is based on Peter Høeg’s 1992 international bestseller of the same name, which explores themes of identity, cultural alienation, and post-colonial tensions. The story follows Smilla Jaspersen as she investigates the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of a young friend, leading her to the Arctic ice fields. Finland’s unique frozen landscapes in the Oulu region provided the perfect backdrop for this reimagining of the mystery.

Constantin Film, one of Germany’s most prominent film production companies, is no stranger to international projects. Known for producing both critically acclaimed films and box-office hits, the company has been a significant player in the global film industry for decades. Their latest venture, a remake of Smilla’s Sense of Snow, brought the production to Finland’s northern Oulu region in winter/early spring 2024, where producer Alicia Remirez and production executive Christian Held led the international team through the adventure of filming on ice.

The series stars Filippa Coster-Waldau. Credit: Constantin Film/Andrej Vasilenko

Looking for winter wonderland

The frozen landscapes of Oulu became a central character in the film, almost unexpectedly. The team had originally scouted locations in Latvia and Lithuania but found that snow was scarce due to increasingly warmer winters. After considering Greenland, Iceland, and Canada, Finland emerged as the perfect location. “We were under time pressure, but Finland adapted quickly, offering us exactly what we needed,” Held noted. “The proximity to the Baltics was a real advantage, and moving the equipment by car was easy. In addition, we secured a 25% production incentive from Business Finland on a tight schedule, and the North Film Commission in Oulu swiftly organized its funding. The Finns were incredibly efficient,” Held shared.

Oulu’s frozen sea created a memorable backdrop for the film. Credit: Constantin Films

“We didn’t have to make any compromises in terms of visuals either. Oulu offered unique, dramatic backdrops that could not be found elsewhere. The shoot took place on Oulu’s frozen sea, where shifting ice formations created surreal, almost mountain-like structures that became key elements in the visual storytelling,” tells producer Alicia Remirez. “The best part of filmmaking is getting to shoot in places you couldn’t imagine. I’ve filmed in many breathtaking locations, but filming on the ice in Oulu was a landscape never to forget,” Remirez said, underscoring the impact that the natural environment had on the entire production.

The Finns – warm at heart

Even though it was cold outside, the Finnish crew proved to be warm at heart. From the moment the international crew arrived, the Finnish team ensured that they were well-prepared to face the freezing temperatures. "We didn’t have to worry about the cold,” Remirez explained. “The Finnish crew knew exactly what equipment worked and how to keep everyone comfortable and safe on the ice. And most of all, they were so nice!" 

Elyas M’Barek stars as Rahid. Credit: Constantin Film/Andrej Vasilenko

The Finnish team brought more than just technical expertise. Warm meals, heated tents, and proper cold-weather gear were all readily available, allowing the international crew to focus on the creative process rather than the elements. “It was like they had thought of everything,” Held added, “from the right clothing to making sure our equipment would perform in these harsh conditions.”

For Remirez, Finland was not an obvious choice before this project. "Prior to this, I would not have considered Finland as a shooting location,” she admitted, “but now, I will not hesitate to come back." She praised the Finnish crew’s hospitality and professionalism, noting that the entire international team felt welcome and at home during the production. "All of the crew felt at home in Finland, especially because of the nice people," she emphasized.

Shifting ice formations created surreal, almost mountain-like structures. Credit: Constantin Film

With its unique landscapes, film-friendly infrastructure, and highly skilled local crew, Finland proved itself as a rising star in the world of international film production. For both Alicia Remirez and Christian Held, this project marked a turning point in their perception of Finland as a viable and attractive filming location. The success of Smilla’s Sense of Snow in Oulu showcases Finland’s growing appeal for international filmmakers seeking stunning, yet accessible, locations.

North Finland Film Commission – Regional partner of Smilla’s Sense of Snow

The North Finland Film Commission (NFFC) is located in the Northern coastline of Finland and headquartered in the city of Oulu, The European Capital of Culture 2026. Offering up to 10% regional incentive and local, English speaking workforce with snow-how, NFFC is a perfect partner for international productions.

The NFFC region offers an expansive and diverse landscape – especially during wintertime. On its western edge, the frozen Baltic sea creates a breathtaking backdrop while to the east side of the region, there are fells blanketed with magical snow-covered trees.

Oulu is a well-connected hub in Northern Finland, offering frequent domestic flights to the capital city Helsinki and train connections all over Finland.

More information: www.nffc.fi