Song of Norway (film)

Song of Norway is a 1970 American-British biographical musical drama film directed by Robert Wise, based on the 1944 operetta of the same name by Milton Lazarus and Edwin Lester, which in turn was based on the life and music of the Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg.

The film stars Toralv Maurstad as Grieg, Florence Henderson as his wife Nina Hagerup, and features an ensemble cast including Christina Schollin, Robert Morley, Edward G. Robinson, Harry Secombe, and Oskar Homolka. The screenplay was written by Andrew L. Stone.

Song of Norway chronicles Grieg's life from his youthful ambitions to his growing fame and eventual international recognition. It depicts his struggles with artistic integrity, his relationship with his wife, and his interactions with prominent figures in the Scandinavian cultural scene. The film showcases Grieg's music prominently, featuring excerpts from his best-known compositions such as Peer Gynt Suite, Piano Concerto in A minor, and, of course, Song of Norway.

The film was notable for its large scale production and extensive location shooting in Norway. However, upon its release, Song of Norway received overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics, who criticized its script, acting, and direction. The lavish production and romanticized depiction of Grieg's life were considered overly sentimental and lacking in historical accuracy. It became known as a critical failure, despite its commercial success due to its wide release and family-friendly appeal. The film's perceived cheesiness and over-the-top musical numbers have led to its enduring reputation as one of the worst musical films ever made.