Behind the Lens: The Personal Journey Behind In Search of the Vikings

Yesterday, we unveiled the official poster for our upcoming feature-length documentary, In Search of the Vikings. While the initial response has been incredible, today we want to peel back the curtain on what truly drives this film and the story at its heart.

When people hear the word "Vikings," they often picture sea voyages, horned helmets (a common misconception!), and distant history. But at its core, In Search of the Vikings isn't just an exploration of the past—it is a deeply personal, contemporary human journey.

A behind-the-scenes look at production on In Search of the Vikings. Karen and Stephanie are making another discovery on their family tree that they weren't expecting...

A Story of Sisterhood and Legacy

The documentary follows two sisters, Karen and Stephanie, as they embark on a quest to retrace their lineage and discover why they are the way they are. Driven, entrepreneurial, hard-working, and natural leaders, the sisters have always shared a tenacious, go-getter spirit.

That work ethic and resilience were modeled for them by their father, who immigrated to the United States from Norway, settled in Pennsylvania, and spent his life building American Crane Corporation into the industry leader it is today.

After their father passed away a few years ago, Karen and Stephanie felt a powerful calling to honor his memory, learn more about his family back in Norway, and grow even closer to one another. With strong Norwegian blood in their veins, their search naturally drew them to the epic legacy of the Vikings—a heritage defined by exploration, grit, and unwavering determination.

Themes That Connect Us All

While Karen and Stephanie’s trip takes them across oceans and back through centuries, their journey reflects questions we all ask ourselves at one point or another:

• Family & Connection: How do the sacrifices and stories of our parents shape our own lives?

  
  

• A Sense of Belonging: Where do we fit into the larger tapestry of human history?

  
  

• Self-Discovery: Where do our specific strengths, passions, and inner fire truly come from?

  
  

In Search of the Vikings is an invitation to reflect on your own roots, celebrate the legacy of those who came before you, and understand the strength you carry in your own bloodline.

The Trailer Drops This Friday

The official movie poster was just the first piece of the puzzle. This Friday, we are proud to give you your first look at Karen and Stephanie's breathtaking and emotional journey.

Make sure you are following Empire Studios across social media, turn on post notifications, and keep an eye on the film's official website www.insearchofthevikings.com.

The search is about to begin. ⚔️