Denmark has made a compelling choice for its submission to the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars with Magnus von Horn’s striking film, *The Girl With the Needle*. This cinematic piece, featuring Vic Carmen Sonne and Trine Dyrholm, draws inspiration from one of Denmark’s most infamous murder cases, shaping a haunting yet poetic narrative that captures the struggles of people on the periphery in the wake of World War I. The film seamlessly marries elements of folklore and realism, presenting a narrative that resonates deeply with contemporary social issues despite its historical backdrop.
At the heart of *The Girl With the Needle* is Karoline (Sonne), a young woman navigating the harrowing terrain of post-war Copenhagen. The landscape is not just geographic but emotional and social, echoing the despair that defined the era. After losing her job and discovering she is pregnant, Karoline’s journey becomes one of survival in a world that offers little support. It is here that she encounters Dagmar (Dyrholm), a vivacious woman who manages an underground adoption operation. This connection between the two women serves as the film’s emotional core, delving into the themes of maternal sacrifice and the quest for connection in dire circumstances.
However, Karoline’s reality soon unravels as she faces the grim realities behind her new role as a wet-nurse. What initially seems to be a lifeline quickly transforms into a nightmare, compelling the audience to confront the often-harrowing nature of motherhood and societal expectations. The film’s dark fairytale quality challenges viewers to grapple with the moral complexities of its characters’ choices.
The screenplay, co-written by von Horn and Line Langebek, reflects a nuanced understanding of this tumultuous period in history while drawing from the versatility of its creators. Produced by Malene Blenkov and Mariusz Włodarski under the Nordisk Film Creative Alliance banner, the film has garnered support from multiple esteemed institutions including The Danish Film Institute and Eurimages, underscoring a collaborative effort that is both ambitious and thoughtful.
With an expected theatrical rollout in major cities such as New York and Los Angeles set for December 6 through MUBI, anticipation is building for its reception. The Match Factory stands behind the film in terms of world sales, indicating confidence in its success on the international auditorium stage.
The Danish Oscar Submitting Committee’s unanimous decision on *The Girl With the Needle* reflects their belief in the film’s potential to make an impact at the Oscars, with Jacob Neiiendam, head of international at the Danish Film Institute, noting its strength as Denmark’s representative. This nomination is significant given the historical context—four Danish films have previously been awarded in this category, establishing Denmark as a formidable presence in global cinema.
*The Girl With the Needle* is not merely a film; it is a poignant exploration of human experiences that leave one questioning the boundaries of morality and compassion. As it prepares to grace the screens of the Academy, its fate may well illuminate Denmark’s continuing legacy in innovative filmmaking.
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