Denmark selects an 18th-century period drama.

When the world is picking its best craft to represent its nation on the world’s biggest stage. Denmark also submitted their film, “The Promised Land,” for the Oscars 2024. It stars Mads Mikkelsen, Amanda Collin, Simon Bennebjerg and Kristine Kujath Thorp. Directed by Nikolaj Arcel, who has directed films like A Royal Affair, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Dark Tower, etc.

A Royal Affair starring Made Mikkelsen, was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Golden Globes and for Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards. “The Promised Land” reunites Arcel and Mikkelsen.

Plot

It’s based in the 18th century, when a soldier, Ludvig Kahlen, wanted to start a settlement at barren Jutland Heath.

But, he makes a formidable enemy in Frederik De Schinkel, a brutal landowner who treats his servants like animals and rapes his maids. Moreover, he claims the land as his own. As a result, he makes it difficult for Ludvig to find the labourers who will prepare the land for planting. However, a young pastor (Anton Eklund) introduces him to a couple, Johannes (Morten Hee Andersen) and Ann Barbara (Amanda Collin), who have escaped De Schinkel’s cruelty and will help him in planting the land. So Ludvig provided them with work and shelter.

Based on the novel, “The Captain and Ann Barbara” by Ide Jessen. It even premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival and was screened at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival.

October 2 is the deadline for submissions for the 2024 best international feature films. The last time Denmark won an Oscar in this category was in 2021. Another Round, directed by Thomas Vinterberg, won the Best International Feature Film.

Published by HOLR Magazine