Arthouse distributor Strand Releasing has secured North American rights for Norwegian filmmaker Dag Johan Haugerud ‘s “Love,” which will have its world premiere on Sept. 6 in the main competition of the Venice Film Festival . M-Appeal is handling worldwide sales for the film.

“Love” is the most recent installment in Haugerud’s “Sex,” “Love” and “Dreams” trilogy, which explores modern relationships and intimacy. “Sex,” the first part, premiered at the Berlinale.

Strand, which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, previously acquired “Sex,” and will release both films theatrically in spring 2025.

Jon Gerrans, co-president of Strand, stated: “Haugerud has created a remarkably intelligent, provocative, and unique approach to personal, adult relationships, with a sly wink toward our own perspectives on sex, love and desire.”

“Love” chronicles the story of Marianne, a practical doctor, and Tor, a compassionate nurse, both of whom avoid traditional relationships. One evening, after a blind date, Marianne crosses paths with Tor on the ferry. Tor, who often seeks casual encounters with men on the ferry, shares his experiences with Marianne. Intrigued by his perspective, Marianne begins to consider whether casual intimacy could be an option for her.

Marianne is portrayed by Andrea Bræin Hovig, and Tor is played by Tayo Cittadella Jacobsen.

M-Appeal has already secured distribution deals for the film in France (Pyramide), U.K. and Ireland (Modern Films), Germany and Austria (Alamode), Italy (Wanted Cinema), Benelux (September Film), Spain (Filmin), Czech Republic and Slovakia (Pilot Film), and Switzerland (Xenix Film). These distributors previously acquired “Sex,” and are planning theatrical releases in their respective regions.

“Love” is produced by Yngve Sæther and Hege Hauff Hvattum for Motlys, and is co-produced by Oslo Filmfond.

Strand has acquired several recent titles including “Wild Diamond,” which premiered at Cannes competition, “Viet and Nam,” which screened in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard, and “Young Hearts,” which played in Berlinale Generation.