The Coins

Inspired by a true story from 1968. Four boys bury some ancient Chinese coins in an excavation field and consequentially rewrite world history. A 15-year-old boy and his friends bury a handful of ancient Chinese coins in an excavation field, hoping to fool the local archeologists and impress the girls. But the news of the discovery quickly spreads to every corner of the world. Journalists, professors, and coin experts from abroad all rush to the city. Suddenly, the sleepy town of Stavanger is at the center of the world map. The main character, Henning, finds himself in an impossible dilemma: should he play along or tell the truth at the cost of destroying his own family?

Directed by Maria Lavelle, Johannes Vikse Pedersen, The Coins leans on a strong ensemble — Adam Ekeli, Emil Piel, Kristoffer Joner — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2023.