A bold and darkly hilarious feature film, THE ART OF NEGATIVE THINKING is coming to screens with a fresh take on self-help satire. Produced by Such Much Films, this subversive comedy dives deep into the emotional struggles of disability, positivity culture, and radical honesty—all wrapped in biting humor.
Based on the acclaimed 2006 Norwegian film Kunsten å tenke negativt, this upcoming English-language version reimagines a critically successful concept for modern audiences, delivering raw truth through sharp laughs.
Plot Overview: When Optimism Meets a Loaded Pistol
Meet Jeff—a former movie stuntman whose life takes a grim turn after a brutal accident leaves him paralyzed from the waist down and impotent. Fueled by resentment and pain, Jeff spirals into isolation, spending his days stoned, watching Vietnam War movies, and keeping a pistol within reach.
Desperate to save their crumbling relationship, Jeff’s wife Kat invites a radical positivity therapy group to intervene. Led by the relentlessly cheerful Tori, the group arrives ready to “fix” Jeff through relentless optimism and group bonding.
But Jeff has other plans. With sharp-tongued sarcasm and unfiltered negativity, he flips the group’s entire dynamic. One by one, the members abandon the happy facade and embrace their inner chaos. What follows is a hilarious—and cathartic—descent into emotional meltdown, brutal honesty, and ultimately, genuine connection.
Production & Legacy
The upcoming feature is being developed by Such Much Films as a reimagining of the original Norwegian classic directed by Bård Breien. That film, released in 2006, was an international festival darling, winning top awards including:
- Best Film – Lübeck Nordic Film Days
- Best Director – Karlovy Vary International Film Festival
- Best Script – Torino Film Festival
It also became the highest-grossing Nordic film in Germany in 2008 and received acclaim in France, Norway, and the U.S.
Casting Director Spotlight: Kamilla Krogsveen
Casting for THE ART OF NEGATIVE THINKING is being led by renowned casting director Kamilla Krogsveen, known for her sharp eye for emotionally grounded and raw performances. With an impressive résumé that includes Late Summer (2016), Kiss Me You F**ing Moron (2013)*, and Uro (2006), Krogsveen has built a reputation for casting characters that feel deeply authentic, complex, and flawed.
Her previous work has balanced intimate drama with bold character choices—making her the ideal casting director for a film like The Art of Negative Thinking, which demands both emotional truth and fearless delivery. Expect a powerful ensemble of actors capable of navigating difficult subject matter with grit, depth, and dark humor.
What Makes THE ART OF NEGATIVE THINKING So Relevant Today?
While rooted in disability and trauma, THE ART OF NEGATIVE THINKING taps into themes that resonate universally: the pressure to stay positive, the masks we wear in group settings, and the liberation that comes from saying what we really feel.
Actors drawn to complex roles and bold dialogue will find this project incredibly appealing. Its blend of discomfort, comedy, and vulnerability will demand performers capable of both dramatic depth and razor-sharp timing.
Expect roles ranging from the angry and wounded Jeff, to the faux-zen Tori, to a cast of wounded yet relatable group members who span a range of disabilities and emotional baggage.
Want to Audition for THE ART OF NEGATIVE THINKING?
Casting announcements for THE ART OF NEGATIVE THINKING have yet to be made public, but opportunities are coming soon.
To audition for a role in this upcoming feature film, stay tuned to Project Casting. We’ll keep you posted as soon as casting calls become available.
