Singer Marie Ulven, known to her millions of fans and followers as girl in red, plays a musician in Eivind Landsvik’s drama “Low Expectations.” But she’s not playing herself. But just because I’m an artist as well, some people assume: ‘I guess that’s her.’ It annoys me, which is why I was hesitant when Eivind said he wanted me to play the part,” she tells Variety. In “Low Expectations” – shown at this week’s Norwegian International Film Festival Haugesund following its premiere at Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight – Maja breaks down after years of international success.
She returns home and starts working at a local high school. Unlike Ulven, Maja decides to give up her artistry. Or rather, she puts it on pause.
But she’s not being an artist at that time in her life, and that’s ultimately what made me say ‘yes.’” This doesn’t mean Ulven is opposed to taking time off as a creator. I met an incredible person in L.A. and he told me: ‘Marie, you’re in a period of incubation.’ As an artist, it’s important to allow yourself those moments when you immerse yourself in books or other people’s art,” she states. You can also be very prolific, but if your motive is stress and the need to stay relevant, that’s not truthful.” She adds: “Maja had success, but she couldn’t handle it because of mental illness, drug abuse and the pressure.
At least, that’s my interpretation of it. It’s a relatable situation when you’ve done something of some level of importance. Afterwards, you feel like you need to live up to it.” Her character transitions from someone who commanded massive stages to someone who just wants to disappear.
I don’t know if it was bad for her, and I don’t know if she’s going to figure it out. But I hope so, you know what I mean?,” she says. Maja tipped the scale over to something that became toxic for her.
But she’s still passionate about making music, so maybe she can figure it out? That’s the big question, I think.” Ulven isn’t quite done with acting, she states. I had genuine fun making this.
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