Filmsmøring

Filmsmøring is a term used in the Norwegian-speaking film industry to describe the practice of illegal or unethical influence within film production, distribution, and promotion, typically involving payments, favors, or other incentives in exchange for advantageous treatment. The concept encompasses bribery, kickbacks, and other covert transactions aimed at shaping decisions in financing, casting, festival selections, awards, or critical coverage.

Common forms include kickbacks from distributors or sales agents to producers or festival programmers; the use of opaque consultancy arrangements to disguise payments; gifts, travel, or hospitality offered to decision-makers; or nepotistic practices that favor insiders over merit. Implementations may occur at various points in the film value chain, including pre-production deals, financing agreements, procurement of services, and publicity campaigns.

Legal and ethical norms vary by country, but many jurisdictions criminalize bribery and corruption, and industry bodies and unions maintain codes of conduct to detect and sanction such practices. Enforcement can involve investigations by authorities, civil or criminal penalties, loss of funding, blacklisting, and reputational damage to companies or individuals involved.

Critics argue that filmsmøring undermines fair competition, distorts creative and artistic decisions, damages audience trust, and distorts cultural representation. Proponents of stricter transparency emphasize open bidding processes, clear accounting, third-party oversight, and whistleblower protections.