The following conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.
The Film Stage: I’m really fascinated to hear more about Fjörd, if you’re able to talk a bit about it today. It’s your first time filming in Norway and your first time working with big-name stars. Did you feel a change in your approach in any way?
Cristian Mungiu: Well, I think that it’s the same kind of cinema that I did before. And I don’t know––we will see––I hope it makes a difference in terms of interest from the spectators, to watch these talented people. I was not working within the star system before now, but I was happy to work with these people without having to change my way of making cinema. We got along quite well and I’m happy that I started with Sebastian, because he speaks some Romanian and he wished to speak Romanian in the film. I’m very curious to see what’s going to be the continuation of this once I move on and try to work with well-known actors who don’t speak Romanian. What will happen there? I’m really curious.
[…]
I’ve read that Fjörd will focus on two families, specifically around cultural differences regarding raising children. Will this topic of education be the central focus?
It doesn’t happen inside a school, but yes, these are always the institutions that are most important in society. Since I have this preoccupation with what we are passing to the next generation, there are children there, but it’s not so much about what school tells us; it’s about the difference between what school tells us and how people see what real life is. Because it’s not at all the same thing. What you tell your children can be very different, based on what education you got. You have to understand that they don’t live in the same kind of world that you lived in, so you have to adapt as a parent. For a parent, this means finding the right balance between the values you try to pass down and the freedom that you need to give to children, hoping that they will be wiser and more empathetic than we were.
Fjörd will be released in 2026 by NEON.
Category: Articles
Elle Man [via Google Translate]
Note: for the accompanying photos click here: Session #167 – Mathieu Rainaud
Sebastian Stan has just starred in Cartier’s new campaign for the Santos de Cartier line. The actor shared his special affection for the iconic watch and his appreciation for the brand.
Sebastian Stan is an actor and producer who rose to fame with his diverse roles in Ridley Scott’s The Martian (2015) and Craig Gillespie’s I, Tonya (2017). In 2022, his performance in the hit miniseries Pam & Tommy earned Sebastian Golden Globe, Emmy, and Critics’ Choice nominations.
At the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, Sebastian Stan won his first award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical . He was also awarded the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the 74th Berlin Film Festival, and received the Nouvel Hollywood Award at the Deauville Film Festival for his role in A Different Man (2024).
Sebastian Stan recently appeared in an image campaign for the Santos de Cartier watch line. The actor shared his special attachment to the Santos line in particular, as well as his admiration for the Cartier brand.
Can you share more about your connection with Cartier watches?
Sebastian Stan : To this day, I still enjoy watching classic movies from the 40s and 50s, and I am particularly impressed by the elegant fashion style of this period. I found it very interesting that many actors chose to wear Cartier watches. These designs possess a timeless beauty, both sophisticated and natural. It is not difficult to understand why these creations still retain their appeal today. I have been with Cartier for many years, and to me, the brand’s creations always have a classic mark, never out of fashion.
What do you look for in a watch?
Sebastian Stan : I always think a watch should go beyond telling the time to say something about you. When I wear a watch, I also get rid of the need to look at my phone to check the time. That’s what I like about wearing this accessory on my wrist. But more importantly, a watch also has to have a presence. It’s not just the look, weight and style, but also the feeling when you wear it on your wrist.
What attracted you to Santos de Cartier?
Sebastian Stan: The Santos de Cartier is most appealing for its bold style and iconic design. I particularly love the versatility of this piece, which can be worn with both formal and casual outfits.I usually wear the Santos de Cartier slightly loose, enjoying the movement of the piece on my wrist. It is a pleasure that I cannot do without when accompanying the Santos de Cartier every day. In fact, I have long been fond of this collection and have always been fascinated to see its continuous development. The new versions, especially with black dials and titanium, exude a strong, masculine energy. I am impressed by the way Cartier continues to experiment with materials and harness the industrial spirit in its designs. This is a clear testament to the Maison’s strong creativity.
What does time mean to you in life and work?
Sebastian Stan: Time is one of those things we can’t control, and that’s why it’s so precious. In my career, I’ve always believed that timing is key, from choosing roles, waiting for the right project, to learning to be patient with the whole process. In life, I try to live fully in every moment, and my watch is a reminder to appreciate that value every day