"Erik Skjoldbjærg's 'Insomnia' is a Norwegian thriller released in 1997, preceding Christopher Nolan's adaptation. Set against the backdrop of the perpetual daylight of a Norwegian summer, the film follows Detective Jonas Engström (played by Stellan Skarsgård) as he investigates the murder of a teenage girl in a small, remote town.

Skjoldbjærg's direction infuses the film with a sense of eerie unease, utilizing the stark landscapes and constant daylight to create a disorienting atmosphere that mirrors the protagonist's internal turmoil. Skarsgård delivers a compelling performance as Engström, capturing the character's descent into moral ambiguity and psychological turmoil as he grapples with his own guilt and the pressures of the investigation.

Unlike Nolan's adaptation, Skjoldbjærg's 'Insomnia' delves deeper into the psychological complexities of its protagonist, exploring themes of guilt, isolation, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. The film is a slow-burn thriller that gradually builds tension, culminating in a gripping and thought-provoking climax.

Overall, 'Insomnia' is a haunting and atmospheric thriller that showcases Skjoldbjærg's skill as a director and Skarsgård's talent as an actor. While it may not have achieved the same level of recognition as Nolan's adaptation, it remains a standout film in its own right, offering a nuanced and compelling exploration of the human psyche."