The Girl with the Needle (2024): A Haunting Tale of Survival and Deception
The Girl with the Needle (original title: Pigen med nålen) is a 2024 historical psychological horror film directed by Magnus von Horn. Set in post-World War I Copenhagen, the film follows Karoline, a young woman who becomes entangled in a sinister underground adoption agency run by the enigmatic Dagmar. Loosely based on the true story of Danish serial killer Dagmar Overbye, the film delves into themes of desperation, morality, and the human capacity for both compassion and cruelty.
🎬 Plot Overview
In the aftermath of World War I, Copenhagen is a city grappling with poverty and social upheaval. Karoline, a factory worker facing unemployment and an unplanned pregnancy, finds herself homeless and vulnerable. She is taken in by Dagmar, a charismatic woman who operates an illegal adoption agency for unwanted children. As Karoline becomes more involved in the agency’s operations, she begins to suspect that Dagmar’s intentions are far from benevolent. The film’s narrative unfolds as a dark fairy tale, exploring the lengths to which individuals will go to survive in a harsh world.
🎭 Cast and Characters
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Vic Carmen Sonne as Karoline: A young woman navigating the challenges of post-war life.
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Trine Dyrholm as Dagmar: The enigmatic operator of the underground adoption agency.
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Besir Zeciri as Peter
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Joachim Fjelstrup as Jørgen
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Tessa Hoder as Frida
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Avo Knox Martin as Erena
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Anders Hove as The Judge
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Ari Alexander as Svendsen
🎥 Production and Release
Directed by Magnus von Horn, known for The Here After (2015) and Sweat (2020), the film was co-written with Line Langebek. It was produced by Nordisk Film Denmark and Lava Films, with co-production support from Sweden and Poland. The film premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival on May 15, 2024, where it competed for the Palme d’Or. It was subsequently showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival and the Mumbai Film Festival. The film was released in Denmark on January 23, 2025.
🏆 Critical Reception and Accolades
The Girl with the Needle received critical acclaim for its haunting portrayal of a grim chapter in Danish history. The film was nominated for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards and for Best Foreign Language Film at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards. Critics praised the film’s atmospheric black-and-white cinematography and the compelling performances of the lead actors.
🔍 Themes and Analysis
The film delves into the complexities of human morality, exploring how desperation can lead individuals to make harrowing choices. It examines the societal failures that allow such tragedies to occur, highlighting issues of poverty, women’s rights, and the lack of social support systems. The narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy and the consequences of neglecting the vulnerable.
📺 Where to Watch
The Girl with the Needle is available for streaming on MUBI in select regions. For viewers in Denmark, the film was released in theaters on January 23, 2025. Please check local listings for availability in your area. MUBI
The Girl with the Needle stands as a powerful cinematic exploration of a dark period in history, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences. Its unflinching portrayal of human resilience and moral ambiguity makes it a must-watch for those interested in thought-provoking historical dramas.