MOVIE INFO:
A standout selection from the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE is a dark fairy tale about one woman’s search for tenderness and morality in a cruel world. Both eerie and exquisite, writer-director Magnus von Horn’s latest film tracks young factory worker Karoline as she struggles to survive in post-WWI Copenhagen. When she ends up unemployed, abandoned and pregnant, the charismatic Dagmar takes her in to help run an underground adoption agency for unwanted children. The two women form an unexpected bond, until a sudden revelation changes everything. Based on a chilling true story, THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE presents a masterful gothic vision with profound contemporary resonance. Denmark’s Best International Feature Film entry to the 97th Academy Awards® also features EFA-nominated performances from Vic Carmen Sonne and Trine Dyrholm, gorgeous cinematography by EO’s Michał Dymek, and a spellbinding score by Frederikke Hoffmeier (Puce Mary).
REVIEW:
“The Girl with the Needle,” directed by Magnus von Horn, is a gothic horror masterpiece that delves into the sinister tale of Danish serial killer Dagmar Overbye. The film is a dark fairy tale that explores themes of motherhood, womanhood, and survival in a patriarchal society. It is a haunting narrative about a woman’s search for morality and tenderness in a cruel and unforgiving world.
The story centers on Karoline, portrayed by the phenomenal Vic Carmen Sonne, who delivers a powerful and nuanced performance. Karoline’s journey is one of resilience and determination as she navigates the treacherous waters of a world dominated by male authority. Her character embodies the struggle of women who face oppression and violence, yet continue to seek out moments of tenderness and humanity.
Magnus von Horn’s direction is meticulous and atmospheric, capturing the dark and eerie essence of the story. The film’s high-contrast black-and-white cinematography by Michał Dymek amplifies the gothic horror elements, creating a visually striking and immersive experience. Von Horn’s decision to frame the narrative as a dark fairy tale adds a layer of depth and complexity, allowing the audience to engage with the story on multiple levels.
“The Girl with the Needle” is also a meditation on motherhood and womanhood. It explores the complexities of these roles in a society that often marginalizes and devalues women’s experiences. Karoline’s relationship with her own sense of morality and her search for tenderness amidst brutality is a poignant reflection on the human condition.
The supporting cast, including Trine Dyrholm as the chilling Dagmar Overbye, add depth and intensity to the narrative. Dyrholm’s portrayal of Dagmar is both terrifying and captivating, embodying the darkness that looms over Karoline’s quest for survival.
Comparing “The Girl with the Needle” to gothic horror classics, it stands out for its unique blend of historical fact and dark fairy tale elements. The film’s exploration of themes such as motherhood and survival in a patriarchal society is reminiscent of the works of Tim Burton and Guillermo del Toro, yet it retains its own distinct voice and style.
“The Girl with the Needle” is a gothic fairy tale that delves deep into human resilience and the search for tenderness in a harsh world. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate thought-provoking storytelling and the beauty of gothic horror. This film will leave a lasting impression on viewers, highlighting the complexities of womanhood and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Grade: A- or 4.0/5. Streaming on Mubi.
CREDITS:
Directed by
Written by
- Magnus von Horn
- Line Langebek
Produced by
- Malene Blenkov
- Mariusz Włodarski
Starring
- Vic Carmen Sonne
- Trine Dyrholm
- Besir Zeciri
- Joachim Fjelstrup
- Tessa Hoder
- Avo Knox Martin
Cinematography
Michał Dymek
Edited by
Agnieszka Glinska
Music by
Frederikke Hoffmeier
Production
companies
- Nordisk Film Denmark
- Lava Films
- Nordisk Film Sweden
- Film i Väst
- EC1 Łódź
- Lower Silesia Film Centre
Distributed by
- Nordisk Film Distribution(Denmark)
- Gutek Film (Poland)
- NonStop Entertainment (Sweden)
Release dates
- 15 May 2024(Cannes)
- 17 January 2025(Poland)
- 23 January 2025(Denmark)
Running time
115 minutes
Countries
- Denmark
- Poland
- Sweden
Language
Danish
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