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There is a classic charm to this gritty, yet somewhat unrealistic Nordic western film directed by Nikolaj Arcel and co-written by Anders Thomas Jensen. Based on the 2020 novel “The Captain and Ann Barbara” by Ida Jessen, which was loosely influenced by a real-life event from Denmark’s past, the movie is visually stunning and full of energy. It follows the story of retired army captain turned farmer Ludwig von Kahlen in the 18th century.
Kahlen received official approval to develop the untamed and barren Jutland heath, a potentially profitable endeavor that would only benefit the most resilient and fervently devoted individuals. Mads Mikkelsen portrays Kahlen with a stoic demeanor and a quiet fortitude that evokes comparisons to Euro Gary Cooper. The film creates romantic and dramatic storylines for this rugged pioneer, along with some progressive beliefs on ethnic diversity that likely did not concern the actual Kahlen.
Amanda Collin, known for her role as Ann Barbara in HBO’s “Raised By Wolves,” portrays a peasant farmer’s wife who runs away and seeks shelter with Kahlen. As she falls in love with him, Simon Bennebjerg plays the role of De Schinkel, a cruel and effete landowner near Kahlen’s plantation who is determined to destroy him. The story has elements of dark comedy, such as when De Schinkel tortures a peasant in front of party guests, causing his assistant to worry about losing their support. Meanwhile, Kahlen’s fiancee, Edel (Kristine Kujath Thorp), a beautiful Norwegian aristocrat, has a surprising attraction to him. Despite the challenges, Kahlen continues his agricultural work with the assistance of a young girl named Anmai Mus (Melina Hagberg) from a Tatar group of Romani travelers who is ostracized because of her dark skin.
Similar to Arcel’s 2012 movie A Royal Affair, this film explores the “extended regency” era of Danish history in the 18th century, similar to the UK’s period of madness under George III. The previous movie focused on the doctor who essentially governed Denmark for a year during Christian VII’s insanity. The Promised Land is set during the reign of Frederick V, who tended to leave matters to his advisors while intoxicated. It is an engaging story, although it does have moments of sentimentality, and Mikkelsen’s performance adds depth and intensity.
Source: theguardian.com
