Lubna Jaffery opens up about her mother's death: โ The Oscar buzz has hit me hard
Just days to go until Hollywood's most prestigious night of film, and back home in Norway, there's a definite buzz in the air. Joachim Trier, Renate Reinsve, and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas are ready to represent the nation on the red carpet with 'The Worst Person in the World'. But it's not just the film industry feeling the excitement. Minister of Culture, Lubna Jaffery, admits that this year's Oscar race holds a profoundly personal significance for her.
A loss that leaves its mark
A few years ago, Lubna Jaffery lost her mother. In previous interviews, she's spoken openly about their incredibly close bond and how her mother always encouraged her to forge her own path. Now, amidst the Oscars frenzy, those memories are resurfacing with full force.
โ It's strange how art can hit you right in the heart when you least expect it. I watched 'The Worst Person in the World' with my mum when it was in cinemas, Jaffery reveals in an interview.
She describes a particular scene where the protagonist, Julie, loses someone close to her, as being almost unbearably powerful to watch in hindsight.
โ My mother loved film and storytelling. She would have adored seeing this Norwegian team shine in Los Angeles. That's why this Oscar hope feels like an echo of her belief in me โ and in Norwegian culture, says a visibly moved Jaffery.
Brotherly love and everyday joy
While her mother's spirit lingers in the minister's office, there's another man in her life ensuring she keeps smiling: her younger brother. Lately, he's been entertaining his sister's social media followers with his 'annoying' antics โ from pinching the last bit of chocolate to showing up unannounced at her office with coffee.
- 'Sweet brother' โ as she affectionately calls him โ has become a bit of a sensation in the comment sections.
- 'Annoying, but indispensable', Jaffery recently wrote in a social media post, which garnered thousands of likes.
- Many have praised her for showing a warm, informal side of politics amidst a hectic schedule.
โ He's my brother, and he's just like most siblings: a bit of a pain, but always there when it counts. It's good to have someone to laugh with when the world gets too serious, she says with a smile.
The Minister's role in Norwegian film
Beyond the personal stories, Lubna Jaffery is also Norway's leading voice in cultural policy. She has clearly stated her ambition to strengthen Norwegian film production, viewing the Oscar nomination as proof that Norwegian stories are reaching a global audience.
โ This isn't just an achievement for Joachim, Renate, and Inga. It's a victory for the entire Norwegian film community, for everyone working behind the scenes, and for the audiences who finally get to see their own lives reflected on the big screen, she says.
She highlights that films like 'The Worst Person in the World' put Norway on the map and open doors for new talent.
A personal and political journey
For Lubna Jaffery, the journey from her mother's care to today's minister's office has been long, but fuelled by the same drive: to create something meaningful. As she watches the Oscars ceremony from home, it will be with a heart beating for both her field and for those she has lost along the way.
โ I know my mother would have been glued to the screen, just like me. And I know she would have been cheering for all the Norwegian nominees. I am too โ for her sake, and for all of us who love Norwegian culture, she concludes.