We had a chat with Creative Producer, Benedicte Westbye — She talks about her path into the industry, why she loves storytelling that can be both arthouse and commercial, and what she wants to build with 25/Seven. She also shares what she’s most proud of from her work on KRAKEN, and who in Oslo she thinks deserves the next spotlight.

Who are you, and what do you do?

My name is Benedicte Westbye. I call myself a creative producer for two reasons: I have many ideas, and I love helping develop someone else’s idea. I have a background as both an actress and a jurist, with a master’s degree in law. I have been in the industry since I was 13 years old, when I had my own TV show at my local TV station. I used to film and edit my own content on VHS.

Since then, I have worked as an actress in Los Angeles and London, as well as a legal advisor for the industry in London. I now also hold a master’s degree in producing. Altogether, I have been in the industry for 25 years and counting. I absolutely love good storytelling. I want to create strong dramas, romantic comedies, and musicals. I am no longer ashamed of saying that. Features, shorts, microdrama, whatever suits the story. My lifelong ambition is to bring together arthouse and commercial filmmaking, because I do not believe they are mutually exclusive.

What is the latest project you worked on that you are proud of?

I recently wrapped work as an associate producer on the creature feature KRAKEN, which I am very proud of. This was my first feature film from start to finish.

I love that we “took KRAKEN back to Norway”, its origin. The story is based on a Norwegian folktale, and Hollywood has borrowed it for too long. I am proud that we made a film that resonates with audiences beyond Norway, with a record number of pre-sales. It is also incredibly rewarding that audiences are enjoying it.

What is the most important thing you want your productions to enable?

One year ago, I started my own production company, 25/Seven Pictures.

We focus on two things: telling stories that matter and supporting the industry with legal questions and challenges. Our goal is to tell stories that genuinely move people, the kind that leave a lasting mark, the way so many stories have left one on me. At 25/Seven, I want our collaboration with creatives to be built on real trust, elevating both the projects and the people behind them.

Another important goal is to see more women and non-binary people thrive in this industry, as storytellers and as leaders, until the day we no longer need labels beyond filmmakers. I believe the next generation is the one that will take us there.

Who in Oslo should get the spotlight next, and why?

Emilie Beck. She is talented, brave, and a great director and writer, and a great person as well. On her latest production, Escape from Bolivia, she worked with a crew that included many women, which I found very inspiring.

CONTACT:

IG: @benedicteww @twentyfivesevenpictures