Stompa & Co.

The Brief

A beloved Norwegian 1960s film classic about Stompa, Bodø, Bergen, Orkanger, and the rest of the boys at Langåsen boarding school. Stein Oscar Magel Paus Andersen, better known as Stompa, arrives by boat in Stakavik. The holidays are over and he is about to start as a new student at Langåsen boarding school. His parents are heading to the United States, where his father will work as a researcher. At Langåsen, the boys are all named after where they come from, but Stompa gets to keep his nickname. It is not easy being new in such a close group, and Stompa quickly finds that out. He befriends another new boy from Bodø. Bergen is the strong leader of the class, and Stompa is not someone who lets others push him around. When Bergen starts trouble, Stompa stands his ground. As the boys get to know each other better, their rivalry slowly fades. The class is taught by the very enthusiastic but strict Mr Tørrdal, who does not tolerate nonsense. There are many funny moments, including a swimming competition, a guinea pig, and a spider that everyone believes is poisonous. The story began with British boarding school books featuring the mischievous Jennings. The novels by Anthony Buckeridge were translated and heavily adapted into Norwegian by Nils-Reinhardt Christensen, who also created the name Stompa. In Norway, the series grew into 22 books, 18 radio plays, and four films about life at Langåsen boarding school, all in a traditional style. The tone is light and effortless, filled with charming school humor and playful dialect jokes. Most memorable of all is Gisle Straume as the absent minded and slightly gullible Mr Tørrdal. His portrayal of a somewhat out of touch but kind hearted teacher is gentle, humorous, and perhaps a little accurate. Good to know: * Language: Norwegian