Filmmaker Martin Zandvliet incisively brings to life a wilfully forgotten and shameful part of Danish history. It is the end of World War II and the occupation has left its marks, both on the Danish coast and in the minds of the people. Under the leadership of the callous sergeant Rasmussen (Roland Møller), a group of German boys – counter to the agreements of the Geneva Convention – are forced to risk their lives to make the beaches safe again.
The serene Danish coastal landscapes, caught in crispy clear images, are regularly shaken up by explosions when another trembling, underfed hand has detonated a landmine. In a subtle manner, Zandvliet transforms the German teenagers from anonymous enemies to full-blooded characters. The bloodier the post-war battle ground becomes, the greater Rasmussen’s inner conflict. Owing to the outstanding performances of the entire cast, every scene of this fact-based drama vibrates with urgency. Winner Warsteiner Audience Award 2016 and MovieZone Award 2016.
Film details
- Country of production
- Denmark
- Year
- 2015
- Festival edition
- IFFR 2016
- Length
- 100"
- Medium/Format
- DCP
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