On paper, Frelle Petersen’s Home Sweet Home might not seem as engaging as it sounds—but its nearly two-hour runtime unfolds into a compelling and deeply affecting experience, thanks in large part to an outstanding performance from lead actress Jette Søndergaard.

Jette plays Sofie, a carer to the elderly, and we are introduced to her from the outset. Through her, we meet a range of clients, each with their own struggles and stories.

The film almost feels like a documentary at times, but Petersen’s direction and the exceptional cinematography by Jørgen Johansson ensure it remains an intimate and visually striking narrative.

By the film’s midpoint, Sofie’s exhaustion becomes increasingly apparent. The breaking point comes when a client’s daughter finally pushes her over the edge—a heartbreaking moment, as we’ve come to understand just how much Sofie cares about both her job and those she looks after. The emotional toll leaves her shaken.

As her relationship with her daughter grows more distant, Sofie hardens. When one of her clients inevitably passes away, she reaches a new emotional low. The final straw comes when she erupts at a colleague for neglecting a client, marking the shift from the compassionate caregiver she once was to something far more mechanical—precisely the type of worker the industry seems to attract.

Sofie’s transformation is painful to watch, and as the film progresses, we begin to wonder where it will all lead.

Jette Søndergaard’s phenomenal performance keeps you completely invested in what is essentially a slow burn of a film.

Beyond Jette’s commanding presence, the supporting cast also delivers raw, honest performances—many laying everything bare (literally, in some cases) to highlight the realities of aging: mobility struggles, loneliness, and even the simple yet arduous task of maintaining personal hygiene.

The film unflinchingly exposes the harsh realities of ageing and of being a caregiver—not just the physical and emotional toll, but the creeping power of neglect, both in Sofie’s clients and in her own life. Her journey is one of profound hardship and revelation.

This is a powerful piece of cinema, one that deserves to make waves at film festivals and has firmly placed Frelle Petersen among the directors to watch.

It may be too early to speculate about awards, but there’s no doubt Home Sweet Home will attract attention. And when it does, don’t overlook this extraordinary piece of work.

Home Sweet Home had its premiere at Berlin International Film Festival