State of Happiness: Season 1 (2018)

"State of Happiness" begins in the picturesque coastal town of Lofoten, Norway, where the discovery of oil in the North Sea sets the stage for a transformative period in the lives of the local residents. The series introduces us to several key characters, including the ambitious and determined businesswoman, Henny, who is eager to capitalize on the oil boom. She is driven by a desire to improve her family's financial situation and secure a better future for her children.

As the story unfolds, we see Henny's husband, the more cautious and traditional Erik, struggling with the rapid changes brought about by the oil industry. He is deeply connected to the land and the fishing traditions of their community, which creates tension between him and Henny. Erik's internal conflict is palpable as he grapples with the fear of losing their way of life versus the potential prosperity that oil could bring.

Meanwhile, Henny's brother, the charming but reckless Magnus, becomes involved in the oil business, further complicating family dynamics. His carefree attitude and willingness to take risks contrast sharply with Erik's more grounded approach. Magnus's decisions often lead to friction within the family, as Henny tries to support his ambitions while Erik remains skeptical of the oil industry's impact on their community.

As the oil exploration progresses, the town experiences a surge of economic activity, attracting workers and investors. This influx brings both opportunities and challenges, as the local residents must navigate the changes to their way of life. Henny becomes increasingly involved in the business side of the oil industry, pushing for development and investment, while Erik becomes more entrenched in his opposition to the changes, fearing the loss of their cultural identity.

The emotional stakes rise when a tragic accident occurs on an oil rig, resulting in the loss of lives and casting a shadow over the community. This event forces the characters to confront the consequences of their choices and the risks associated with the oil industry. Henny, feeling the weight of her decisions, begins to question whether the pursuit of wealth is worth the potential cost to their community and family.

As tensions mount, Henny and Erik's relationship becomes strained. They have heated arguments about the future, with Henny advocating for progress and Erik longing for the past. Their differing visions for their family's future create a rift that threatens to tear them apart. Henny's ambition clashes with Erik's desire for stability, leading to moments of deep emotional turmoil for both characters.

In a pivotal moment, Henny makes a bold decision to invest in a new oil venture, believing it will secure their family's financial future. This decision alienates Erik further, who feels betrayed by Henny's willingness to prioritize profit over their community's well-being. The emotional fallout from this decision reverberates throughout their family, leading to a confrontation that forces them to reevaluate their priorities and the meaning of happiness.

As the season progresses, the community grapples with the environmental impact of the oil industry, leading to protests and a growing divide among the residents. Some embrace the economic opportunities, while others resist the changes, fearing the destruction of their way of life. Henny finds herself at the center of this conflict, torn between her ambitions and her loyalty to her community.

The season culminates in a dramatic confrontation between Henny and Erik, where they must confront their differing values and the future of their family. The emotional intensity of this moment is heightened by the backdrop of the ongoing changes in their town, symbolizing the broader struggle between progress and tradition. The season ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the characters' fates uncertain and setting the stage for further exploration of their relationships and the impact of the oil industry on their lives.

At the end of "State of Happiness," the characters face the consequences of their choices amid the backdrop of the oil boom in Norway. The story concludes with a sense of unresolved tension, as personal and professional conflicts come to a head, leaving the characters at a crossroads in their lives.

In a more detailed narrative, the final scenes unfold as follows:

The episode opens with a stark contrast between the bustling oil town and the personal turmoil of the main characters. The camera pans over the vibrant landscape of Norway, capturing the beauty of the fjords juxtaposed with the industrial developments that have transformed the area. The air is thick with anticipation as the community prepares for a significant oil deal that promises to change their lives forever.

We find the character of Håkon, who has been deeply involved in the oil business, grappling with the moral implications of his work. He stands on the edge of a cliff, looking out over the water, reflecting on the choices he has made. His internal conflict is palpable; he is torn between the allure of wealth and the impact of his decisions on the environment and the local community. As he contemplates his future, he receives a call that pulls him back into the fray.

Meanwhile, the character of Liv is dealing with her own set of challenges. She has been a strong advocate for the local community, fighting against the exploitation of their land. In the final scenes, she confronts Håkon, expressing her frustration and disappointment in his willingness to compromise their values for profit. Their heated exchange is charged with emotion, revealing the depth of their relationship and the stakes involved. Liv's determination to protect her home is evident, and she stands firm in her beliefs, even as the pressure mounts around her.

As the oil deal is finalized, the community gathers to celebrate, but the atmosphere is tinged with unease. The camera captures the mixed emotions on the faces of the townspeople, some excited about the economic opportunities, while others are wary of the changes that will come. The celebration is a stark reminder of the divide within the community, highlighting the conflicting desires for progress and preservation.

In the final moments, Håkon and Liv share a poignant look, filled with unspoken words and unresolved feelings. Their paths diverge as Håkon embraces the new opportunities presented by the oil boom, while Liv remains committed to her fight for the land. The scene fades out with Håkon walking away, leaving Liv standing alone, symbolizing the choices they have made and the futures they have chosen.

The fate of each main character is left open-ended. Håkon steps into a world of wealth and influence, but at the cost of his relationship with Liv and his connection to the land. Liv, on the other hand, stands as a guardian of her community, but faces an uncertain future as she continues her battle against the encroaching oil industry. The ending encapsulates the themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the struggle between progress and preservation, leaving viewers to ponder the implications of the characters' choices.

In "State of Happiness," Season 1, there is no post-credit scene. The series concludes its episodes without additional scenes after the credits, focusing instead on the narrative arcs and character developments throughout the episodes. The storytelling is tightly woven, emphasizing the emotional and social dynamics of the characters as they navigate life in a small coastal town in Norway, particularly in relation to the oil industry and its impact on their lives. The absence of a post-credit scene allows the audience to reflect on the themes and character journeys presented in the main episodes.

Helle, a central character in 'State of Happiness', grapples with the complexities of her personal life, particularly her strained relationship with her husband, who is often preoccupied with work. As she navigates her role as a mother, she also struggles with feelings of isolation and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. Her emotional turmoil is heightened by her desire for independence and fulfillment, leading her to question her choices and the life she has built.

The discovery of oil serves as a catalyst for change in the small Norwegian town, bringing both opportunities and conflicts. Characters like Helle and her friends experience a mix of excitement and anxiety as the town transforms. The influx of wealth leads to tensions between those who embrace the changes and those who fear losing their traditional way of life. This shift creates a backdrop for personal stories of ambition, greed, and the struggle to maintain community values amidst rapid development.

Lars is a pivotal character in Helle's journey, representing both a source of support and a point of conflict. As a friend and confidant, he encourages her to pursue her dreams and challenges her to confront her dissatisfaction with her life. However, his own ambitions and the pressures of the oil boom create a rift between them, forcing Helle to reevaluate her relationships and her own desires. Lars embodies the complexities of friendship and ambition, influencing Helle's path toward self-discovery.

Aina, another key character, copes with the changes brought by the oil discovery through a mix of resilience and vulnerability. Initially excited about the potential for economic growth, she soon faces the harsh realities of increased competition and the loss of her familiar environment. Aina's emotional journey reflects her struggle to adapt, as she balances her aspirations with the fear of losing her community's identity. Her character arc highlights the personal costs of progress and the search for stability in a rapidly changing world.

The relationships between the women in 'State of Happiness' are central to the narrative, showcasing themes of solidarity, rivalry, and personal growth. As they navigate the challenges posed by the oil boom, their bonds are tested by jealousy, ambition, and differing values. These interactions reveal the complexities of female friendship and the support systems that emerge in times of change. The women's dynamics serve as a mirror to the broader societal shifts, emphasizing the importance of community and connection amidst personal struggles.

"State of Happiness" is a Norwegian drama series that explores themes of personal ambition, environmental issues, and the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of the oil industry in Norway. While the show is rich in storytelling and character development, it does contain some elements that may not be suitable for younger audiences or sensitive viewers.

1. Mature Themes: The series delves into adult themes such as ambition, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas associated with the oil industry, which may be difficult for children to fully understand.

2. Emotional Turmoil: Characters experience significant emotional struggles, including heartbreak, loss, and existential crises, which could be upsetting for sensitive viewers.

3. Conflict and Tension: There are scenes of interpersonal conflict that may include arguments or confrontations, reflecting the high stakes of the characters' ambitions and personal lives.

4. Substance Use: The show may depict instances of alcohol consumption, which could be concerning for younger viewers or those sensitive to such portrayals.

5. Environmental Concerns: The series addresses the impact of the oil industry on the environment, which may include distressing imagery or discussions about ecological damage.

Overall, while "State of Happiness" offers a compelling narrative, its mature themes and emotional depth may not be suitable for all audiences, particularly children.