The largest streamer in the Nordic region, Viaplaydebuted in Canada, continuing its North American expansion after landing in the United States on February 22.
The direct-to-consumer platform bills itself as the premier platform for Nordic Noir, the term used to describe the growing subgenre of Scandinavian crime dramas, thrillers, dark comedies and YA offerings.
Available in all Nordic and Baltic countries, Viaplay has gained traction in recent months, expanding across Europe, the UK and Australia. In February, it reported an 83% year-over-year increase in streaming subscribers, a number that is expected to grow with North American launches.
At launch, Viaplay is available for CAD $6.99 ($5.13) per month after a seven-day free trial. A subscription includes exclusive Canadian premieres of over 50 premium series and films throughout 2023. Titles include the biographical series “The Dreamer – Becoming Karen Blixen”, starring Connie Nielsen; Berlin selection “The Architect”; and the action thriller “Max Anger – With One Eye Open”, based on Martin Österdahl’s hit crime trilogy.
The streamer also plans to release its first original Canadian production, a series of biopics about the late NHL Hall of Famer Börje Salming, later this year. The six-part English-language series is currently in production and is created and directed by Amir Chamdin (“Partisan”). It follows the player’s pioneering journey in the 1970s and stars Valter Skarsgård as Salming, Jason Priestley as Maple Leafs talent scout Gerry McNamara, and AC Peterson as controversial Leafs owner Harold Ballard.
“As the global leader in original Nordic content and creator of award-winning international series, we are thrilled to offer a wide range of content from thrilling and gripping dramas to riveting true stories and ground-breaking series about the transition to adulthood,” Vanda said. Rapti, Viaplay Group Commercial Director, North America and Viaplay Select.
“As Nordic storytelling continues to resonate with Canadian audiences and their affinity for crime dramas set in beautiful landscapes, we can’t wait for them to experience their new favorite series,” added Rapti.
Viaplay is available to stream in Canada via apps on iOS and Android mobile phones and tablets; Chromecast devices; Smart TV, Android TV, Google TV, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV streaming devices; as well as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari web browsers.