Filmmaker Statement

Ever since I started going to the sauna regularly, I’ve wanted to make a film about this fascinating place where strangers are completely naked just inches from each other. In Denmark, we have a strong sauna culture, especially among our seniors, who like to spend their early mornings together in the sauna, discussing everything from politics to bus schedules. From the outside, a community like this — despite its typically conservative worldview — seems like a dream scenario for most senior citizens. But, as with many communities, it can be pretty hard to make friends and be genuinely welcomed into the community if you are from a different background or culture. This led me to the creation of the main character ‘Ali’, and together with him, we dive into the mind-boggling world of the Danish saunas.