Denmark has made a bold choice by submitting Magnus von Horn’s film, *The Girl With the Needle*, for consideration in the Best International Feature Film category at the Oscars. The film, featuring talented actors Vic Carmen Sonne and Trine Dyrholm, draws inspiration from one of Denmark’s most infamous murder cases, masterfully blending elements of dark fairy tales with the grim reality faced by those living on the fringes after the devastation of the First World War.
Set against the backdrop of post-war Copenhagen, the film navigates the turbulent life of Karoline, played by Sonne, who is desperately trying to survive amidst societal upheaval. The narrative begins with her having lost her job, feeling abandoned and grappling with the complexities of an unwanted pregnancy. This depiction of vulnerability in a historical context uncanny mirrors the plight of many women who have faced marginalization. Her encounter with Dagmar, portrayed by Dyrholm, a woman who runs an underground adoption agency, becomes the linchpin in her story. Dagmar’s character, offering a glimmer of hope through her initiatives to help mothers find homes for their children, exemplifies strength and charisma. Their emerging bond drives the narrative forward but is riddled with dark undertones that question the integrity of their sanctuary.
Von Horn skillfully co-wrote the screenplay with Line Langebek, crafting a tale that is both poetic and haunting. The production, supported by multiple film institutes, including The Danish Film Institute and The Polish Film Institute, showcases a collaborative effort to bring this compelling story to life. Notably, *The Girl With the Needle* also marks von Horn’s first venture into Danish-language cinema, following his notable works in Swedish and Polish film industries. It had a prestigious debut competing at the Cannes Film Festival, positioning it alongside globally recognized films, further heightening the anticipation surrounding its Oscar submission.
The film has garnered positive reviews, including a notably enthusiastic critique from *Deadline*, which lauded it as “an unequivocal and beguiling triumph.” Such accolades signify the film’s depth and emotional resonance among audiences and critics alike. The connections explore facets of human relationships—a poignant lens on maternal love and sacrifice against the stark realities of life and death, hope and despair.
Scheduled for theatrical release in select U.S. cities via MUBI on December 6, *The Girl With the Needle* carries the weight of Denmark’s cinematic legacy as it strives for Oscar recognition. Historically, Danish films have seen considerable success in this category, with four past wins, which adds an intriguing layer of expectation to von Horn’s work. Jacob Neiiendam, head of the Danish Film Institute’s international division, expressed strong confidence in the film’s potential, implying that this submission could stand out against formidable competition.
As *The Girl With the Needle* embarks on its journey through the awards circuit, its ability to evoke empathy and spark conversations about societal challenges in historical contexts will undoubtedly play a crucial role in defining its legacy as a standout film within both Danish and international cinema.
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