In a new feature for 2024 we will be sharing our thoughts on upcoming Nordic film releases in the UK. First up is Anders Walter’s Liberation.

Movies based on stories from World War One and World War Two continue to emerge, offering new perspectives on the tragic events of those brutal times. It’s a well-trodden path, especially with recent releases like All Quiet on the Western Front, making it a challenging journey to undertake.

Even from the Nordic countries, recent offerings like The Bombardment, War Sailor, and Gold Run, as well as the upcoming Convoy, delve into various aspects of these historical periods. In this film, director Anders Walter narrows his focus to the German occupation of Denmark and the challenges it posed when thousands of German refugees entered the country.

Pilou Asbæk plays the lead role, a refreshing return to his Danish roots, steering clear of the villainous characters he’s become known for in Hollywood (where he excels, to be fair). His chemistry with his on-screen son, portrayed by Lasse Peter Larsen, effectively captures attention and evokes empathy for their characters.

Elsewhere, the brilliant Ulrich Thomsen is present but underused, portraying a vocal yet underutilized character in the unfolding dilemma. Morten Hee Andersen, known for playing both nice and nasty characters, once again excels in portraying a bit of a sinister character. Unfortunately, the female stars, especially Katrine Greis-Rosenthal as Asbæk’s wife, don’t get much of a storyline, relegated to watching as the moral dilemma suffocates their family.

This film avoids shootouts and tense moments, opting for a simple yet effective narrative that explores how one family copes with determining the morally right course of action. While the film is short and slow, it manages to deliver an emotional punch, especially with the shocking statistics shared at the end – hammering home the harsh reality of this historical period.

Signature Entertainment presents Liberation on Digital Platforms 29th January