Helene Bergsholm first came to international attention with her breakthrough role in the Norwegian comingofage film Turn Me On, Dammit!a movie that explores the awkward, emotional, and often humorous journey of a teenage girl navigating life, desire, and identity. Her performance in this film established her as a compelling young talent in Scandinavian cinema and set the stage for a career that includes a variety of roles in both film and television. Beyond just acting, Bergsholm’s work in Turn Me On, Dammit! made an impact by bringing a candid and relatable portrayal of youth to the screen, and her character’s story continues to resonate with audiences interested in honest, characterdriven stories.
About Helene Bergsholm
Helene Naustdal Bergsholm was born on July 20, 1992, in Førde, a town in western Norway. She grew up in an environment far from the glitz of major film centers, attending Hafstad High School before pursuing further education in photography and visual arts. She later studied art direction and completed a bachelor’s degree that included time in New York, broadening her creative skills beyond acting. Bergsholm’s background in visual arts and her early involvement in performance helped her bring depth and authenticity to her roles on screen, beginning with her first leading part in Turn Me On, Dammit! at a young age.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Norway, Bergsholm balanced academic pursuits with growing interests in visual media and creative expression. She spent time studying photography before enrolling in a program focused on art direction. Her academic journey included attending the Westerdals Oslo School of Arts, Communication and Technology, with part of her training taking place at the School of Visual Arts in New York. Later, she attended the Oslo National Academy of the Arts, further refining her artistic abilities both in front of and behind the camera.
Breakthrough Role in Turn Me On, Dammit!
Helene Bergsholm made her most notable film debut in the 2011 Norwegian film Turn Me On, Dammit! (original title FÃ¥ meg pÃ¥, for faen!), directed by Jannicke Systad Jacobsen. The film is a comingofage romantic comedy based on a novel by Olaug Nilssen, and it centers on the character Alma, a 15yearold girl experiencing the confusing and intense moments of adolescent growth, desire, and selfdiscovery. Bergsholm’s performance in this lead role was both candid and heartfelt, earning wide attention from critics and audiences alike.
About the Film
Turn Me On, Dammit! is set in the fictional small town of Skoddeheimen in western Norway and follows Alma as she navigates life with her friends, fantasizes about boys, and deals with the awkward realities of adolescent sexuality. The film blends humor with sincerity and presents a unique look at growing up in a tightknit community. Critics noted its quirky tone, honest storytelling, and refreshingly open approach to topics often overlooked in teen films. The movie was featured in several international film festivals, including Tribeca and Stockholm, and it won several awards, highlighting its critical success.
Helene Bergsholm’s Performance
Playing Alma was a defining moment for Bergsholm as an actress. Her portrayal was praised for its natural energy, vulnerability, and confidence, capturing both the inner conflicts and external pressures faced by young people. Alma’s experiencesranging from friendship struggles to awkward social encounterswere brought to life through Bergsholm’s engaging work. She was nominated for an Amanda Award for Best Female Lead for her role in the film, underscoring the industry’s recognition of her talent. In 2013, she also received international recognition with a Rising Young Talent award at the William and Mary Global Film Festival.
Other Work and Filmography
Following her breakthrough, Helene Bergsholm continued to build her acting career with a range of roles in both feature films and short productions. While Turn Me On, Dammit! remains her most iconic part, she has demonstrated versatility and dedication in subsequent projects.
Notable Roles After Her Breakthrough
- She appeared in the Norwegian film Revenge in 2015, where she continued to expand her acting range beyond teen roles.
- Bergsholm took on roles in a variety of short films, such as Vi kan ikke hjelpe alle and others, showcasing her ability to work across different storytelling formats.
- She also participated in television productions and further screen work, including series roles that allowed her to explore complex characters.
The Legacy of Turn Me On, Dammit!
Turn Me On, Dammit! continues to be remembered as a unique and influential comingofage film with a distinct voice. Its candid treatment of adolescence, humor, and emotional honesty set it apart from many mainstream teen films. Bergsholm’s central performance helped anchor the film, establishing Alma as a relatable and layered character for audiences around the world. Critics often note that the film’s charm comes from its willingness to engage with topics that are genuine and awkward, but all the more human because of it.
Audience and Critical Reception
The film received positive responses from critics, reflected in high approval ratings on review aggregators and strong praise for its balance of comedy and depth. Reviewers highlighted the film’s ability to handle sensitive topics with humor and care, as well as its standout performances from the cast, especially Bergsholm. As a result, it remains a memorable example of international independent cinema in the early 2010s.
Impact on Contemporary Cinema
Turn Me On, Dammit! helped pave the way for more honest, grounded portrayals of teenage experiences in independent film. Its success demonstrated that smaller, characterdriven stories could resonate widely when they are honest and human. Bergsholm’s performance contributed to this impact, showing that authentic portrayals of youth can be both entertaining and meaningful. The film continues to be discussed in contexts where filmmakers and audiences seek diverse and truthful narratives about adolescence.
Helene Bergsholm’s role in Turn Me On, Dammit! remains a defining part of her career and a memorable entry in modern comingofage cinema. Her engaging portrayal of Alma not only introduced her as a talented actress but also helped bring attention to a film that approaches young life with humor, honesty, and empathy. Beyond this breakout performance, Bergsholm has continued to build a varied body of work that reflects her range and depth as a performer. Her contribution to the film and to its ongoing legacy illustrates how authentic storytelling and compelling performances can leave a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike, making Turn Me On, Dammit! and Helene Bergsholm’s work significant in contemporary film discussions.