Denmark has made a significant mark in the cinematic landscape, and now, the nation sets its sights on the prestigious Oscar for Best International Feature Film. “The Girl With the Needle,” directed by Magnus von Horn and starring Vic Carmen Sonne and Trine Dyrholm, serves as Denmark’s official submission. This film draws inspiration from one of the country’s most infamous murder cases, crafting a narrative that deftly intertwines poetic elements with the harsh realities faced by individuals on society’s outskirts post-World War I.
The premise revolves around Karoline, portrayed by Sonne, who embodies the struggles of a young factory worker navigating the chaos of post-war Copenhagen. Her plight is exacerbated when she becomes pregnant and is abandoned, leading her to Dagmar (Dyrholm), an enigmatic woman who operates an underground adoption service. This relationship becomes crucial as Karoline’s new role as a wet-nurse forms a bond that accentuates themes of survival and maternal struggle in a society rife with emotional scars from the war.
“The Girl With the Needle” doesn’t simply recount the struggles of its main character; it creates a vivid tableau of life during the 1920s, a time when societal norms were shifting but many continued to be left behind. The interplay between Karoline and Dagmar offers a nuanced examination of female resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity. The film’s title hints at a metaphor for the scars that life inflicts, and how people strive to mend their wounds.
Critics have praised the film for its potent atmosphere, with Deadline’s review highlighting it as an “unequivocal and beguiling triumph.” The cinematography, along with von Horn’s deft direction, elevates the film beyond mere storytelling, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the rich textures of a bygone era.
Supported by various prominent institutions, including The Danish Film Institute and Nordisk Film & TV Fond, “The Girl With the Needle” is a collective endeavor marked by the collaborative spirit of multiple filmmaking bodies. The screenplay is co-written by von Horn and Line Langebek, indicating a strong authorial voice layered within a collaborative framework that strengthens its narrative.
The film has already made waves in esteemed circles, having debuted in competition at the Cannes Film Festival. Critics and viewers alike await its theatrical release in New York and Los Angeles on December 6, courtesy of MUBI, offering a broader audience the chance to witness this evocative piece of cinema.
Denmark’s track record at the Oscars is commendable, with four wins in the Best International Feature Film category, a testament to the nation’s rich storytelling tradition. Jacob Neiiendam, from the Danish Film Institute, has lauded “The Girl With the Needle” as the strongest candidate for an Oscar nomination this year. This optimistic note adds to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the film, as it strives to find its place among Denmark’s celebrated cinematic achievements.
“The Girl With the Needle” emerges not just as a film but as a rich historical narrative that invokes introspection about love, loss, and the struggles of femininity during a turbulent time. As it gears up for its Oscar journey, audiences can expect a haunting yet illuminating viewing experience that captives the essence of resilience against the darkness of human experience.
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