The Best Danish Movies Ever and Where to Stream Them
Posted by Danish cinema has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century, and it continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its unique storytelling and compelling narratives that don’t shy away from difficult topics. From thought-provoking dramas to thrilling adventures, Danish movies offer a diverse range of cinematic experiences that can entertain, challenge, and even help you improve your Danish language skills.
But, what are the best Danish movies out there? And, more importantly, where can you watch them?
To make your life a little easier, we’ve put together this list of the best Danish movies, and where you can find them online.
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1. The Hunt (Jagten) (2012)
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What is it about?
The Danish movie The Hunt, directed by Thomas Vinterberg, is a gripping drama that revolves around Lucas, a kindergarten teacher played by Mads Mikkelsen. Lucas’s life takes a tragic turn when he becomes the target of a false accusation that tears apart his small community. The film explores the devastating consequences of a lie and the complexity of human relationships.
Our review
The Hunt is a powerful and emotionally charged film that showcases Mads Mikkelsen’s exceptional acting skills. It delves into themes of mob mentality, innocence, and the impact of rumors on an individual’s life. Thomas Vinterberg’s direction beautifully captures the tense atmosphere, making it a must-watch for people who love cinema in general and Danish movies in particular.
Danish culture focus
The Hunt sheds light on Danish culture’s sense of community and how tightly knit relationships can be both a source of support and danger. It also reflects the Danish value of honesty and the importance of confronting difficult truths.
Where to stream the Danish movie The Hunt
You can rent The Hunt on popular streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and YouTube.
2. The Celebration (Festen) (1998)
What is it about?
The Celebration, directed by Thomas Vinterberg, is a family drama that revolves around a grand family gathering to celebrate the 60th birthday of Helge, played by Henning Moritzen. As the celebration progresses, dark family secrets and buried emotions come to the surface, leading to a gripping and intense confrontation.
Our review
The Celebration is a raw and emotionally charged film that showcases the complexity of family dynamics and the weight of unresolved trauma. It is shot in a unique Dogme 95 style, adding to the film’s authenticity and emotional impact.
Danish culture focus
The Celebration provides an insightful look into Danish family traditions and dynamics. It explores the importance of authenticity in relationships and how this value clashes with the reserved nature of many Danish individuals.
Where to stream the Danish movie The Celebration
You can stream The Celebration on the Criterion Channel.
3. Babette’s Feast (Babettes gæstebud) (1987)
What is it about?
Babette’s Feast, directed by Gabriel Axel, is a heartwarming and visually stunning film set in a remote Danish village. It tells the story of Babette, a French refugee who seeks shelter with two pious sisters. Babette later wins the lottery and decides to use her winnings to prepare an extravagant feast for the villagers, creating a transformative experience for everyone.
Our review
Babette’s Feast is an exquisitely crafted film with an endearing central performance by Stéphane Audran and exquisite cinematography. It celebrates the joy of food, the power of kindness, and the universality of human emotions.
Danish culture focus
The film captures the simplicity and warmth of Danish village life, which values shared experiences and community over individual success. It also highlights the importance of hospitality and generosity, as well as the importance of breaking cultural barriers.
Where to stream the Danish movie Babette’s Feast
You can stream Babette’s Feast on HBO Max or rent it on Apple TV.
4. Another Round (Druk) (2020)
What is it about?
Another Round, directed by Thomas Vinterberg, is a comedic drama that follows four high school teachers who experiment with the theory that maintaining a constant low level of alcohol in their blood can improve their lives. As their social experiment progresses, the teachers experience both positive and negative consequences.
Our review
Another Round is a thought-provoking and witty film that masterfully balances humor and poignancy. Mads Mikkelsen’s performance, once again, stands out, bringing depth and authenticity to the character’s struggles.
Danish culture focus
The film delves into Danish drinking culture, which is an integral part of the country’s social fabric. It also examines how Danish males deal with societal expectations, mid-life crises, and the pursuit of happiness.
Where to stream the Danish movie Another Round
Another Round is available for streaming on Hulu and Kanopy. You can also rent it on Amazon, Google Play, YouTube or Apple TV.
5. A Royal Affair (En kongelig affære) (2012)
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What is it about?
A Royal Affair, directed by Nikolaj Arcel, is a historical drama set in 18th-century Denmark. It revolves around the love affair between the mentally unstable Danish King Christian VII, played by Mikkel Boe Følsgaard, and the British-born Queen Caroline Mathilde, played by Alicia Vikander. The affair is further complicated by the arrival of Johann Friedrich Struensee, played by Mads Mikkelsen, who becomes the king’s trusted physician and a catalyst for change in the country.
Our review
A Royal Affair is a sumptuous period drama with exceptional performances and a captivating narrative. It beautifully portrays the struggles of love, power, and societal constraints during the 18th Century.
Danish culture focus
The film provides a glimpse into Denmark’s history, particularly the Age of Enlightenment, which saw a dramatic shift in attitudes toward politics, society, and government. It also examines the power dynamics between men and women during that time.
Where to stream the Danish movie A Royal Affair
You can stream A Royal Affair on HBO Max or rent it on Apple TV.
6. Speak No Evil (Gæsterne) (2022)
What is it about?
A Danish family is on vacation when they meet another family from the Netherlands. They hit it off so well that, despite having only spent a short time together, they accept the invitation to spend a few days at the Dutch family’s home. However, things take a dark turn as the seemingly friendly invitation transforms into a horrifying nightmare from which it will be difficult to escape alive.
Our review
The only horror film in our list of Danish movies, Speak No Evil is a gripping and suspenseful film that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The plot unfolds with an innocent meeting between two families, but as they embark on a seemingly harmless vacation together, the tension gradually builds, leaving the audience with a sense of impending doom. The film masterfully creates an atmosphere of unease and dread, making it almost unbearable to watch at times.
Danish culture focus
Speak No Evil is an intense exploration of the dangers of absolute tolerance, and how extreme politeness can lead to people unwittingly walking into a trap. It questions the notion of what is considered polite in Danish culture, and how easily trust can be betrayed.
Where to stream Speak No Evil
You can find Speak No Evil on AMC+ and DirecTV. You can also rent it on YouTube, Google Play, or Apple TV.
7. Land of Mine (Under sandet) (2015)
What is it about?
“Land of Mine” is a gripping war drama that sheds light on a little-known historical event after World War II. The film follows the harrowing journey of a group of young German prisoners of war in Denmark tasked with clearing landmines from the coastline. Their perilous mission brings forth themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the lasting scars of war.
Our review
Land of Mine is a captivating film that leaves a lasting impact. Director Martin Zandvliet skillfully portrays the psychological toll of war on both captor and captive, challenging the audience to grapple with themes of humanity, forgiveness, and the consequences of hatred. The performances are exceptional, particularly Roland Møller’s portrayal of Danish sergeant Carl Rasmussen, whose transformation from bitterness to empathy is compelling to watch.
Danish culture focus:
Land of Mine offers a unique perspective on Danish culture, emphasizing its historical context and its struggle to come to terms with the aftermath of World War II. The film reflects Denmark’s position as a nation that experienced occupation during the war, revealing the complex emotions that arose during the liberation and its aftermath.
Where to stream the Danish movie Land of Mine.
You can stream it on Starz or rent it on Apple TV.
In conclusion, Danish movies offer a treasure trove of exceptional stories that cater to a wide range of tastes and interests. Whether you are looking for emotionally charged dramas, heartwarming tales, or thought-provoking narratives, Danish movies have it all.
Moreover, watching these films can be a great way to immerse yourself in Danish culture and language, as all of them are spoken in the Danish language with English subtitles.
So, grab your favorite snack, sit back, and embark on a journey through the best Danish movies ever made. They will not only entertain you but also offer valuable insights into the Danish way of life and help you appreciate the art of storytelling in its purest form.
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