The Girl with the Needle is not just a film; it’s an experience wrapped in mystery, historical tension, and emotional intensity. Set in the aftermath of World War I, this Danish drama explores themes of survival, desperation, and the complex moral choices people make when their backs are against the wall.
Directed by Magnus von Horn, the film made a significant impact at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival and has since gained traction among international cinephiles. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the film’s plot, cast performances, visual style, and its broader impact. Let’s uncover what makes The Girl with the Needle a standout cinematic experience.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
Set in 1919 Copenhagen, The Girl with the Needle follows the haunting journey of Karoline, a young woman struggling to survive in the chaotic aftermath of war. After being abandoned by her lover and left pregnant with no support, Karoline finds herself desperate for a way out. She stumbles upon a charitable sewing home run by the charismatic Dagmar, who offers her shelter and employment.
But things aren’t as they seem.
As Karoline becomes more entangled in Dagmar’s world, she discovers dark secrets hidden beneath the surface. The sewing home is not just a sanctuary it’s a sinister operation with horrifying consequences. The Girl with the Needle masterfully blends suspense, psychological drama, and historical realism, creating a gripping story that keeps viewers on edge.
Cast Performances
One of the biggest strengths of The Girl with the Needle is its compelling performances. Vic Carmen Sonne plays Karoline with heartbreaking authenticity. Her portrayal of a woman caught between hope and horror is raw and unforgettable. She captures every nuance from desperation to suspicion with such emotional depth that it’s impossible not to root for her.
Opposite her, Trine Dyrholm gives a chilling yet captivating performance as Dagmar. She brings a haunting complexity to the role, balancing charm and menace in a way that few actresses could pull off. The chemistry between the two leads is electric and drives the emotional core of the film.
Supporting performances from actors like Esben Smed and Magnus Krepper further elevate the film, each character adding layers to the dark tapestry of The Girl with the Needle.
Cinematography and Direction
Director Magnus von Horn deserves credit for his bold storytelling and attention to historical detail. His vision brings 1919 Denmark to life with stark realism, grim streets, muted colors, and a sense of claustrophobia that perfectly mirrors Karoline’s inner turmoil.
Cinematographer Michal Dymek crafts every frame like a painting. The close-up shots pull you into Karoline’s emotional world, while wide-angle scenes reveal the bleakness of post-war society. The slow, deliberate pacing may not appeal to fans of fast-paced thrillers, but for those who enjoy psychological depth, The Girl with the Needle delivers masterfully.
Themes and Symbolism
Beneath its thriller surface, The Girl with the Needle explores deeper themes of trust, exploitation, and survival. The needle, often associated with healing or creation, takes on a darker symbolism here representing control, manipulation, and harm. It’s a brilliant metaphor that underscores the duality of help and harm that runs through the narrative.
The film also touches on gender and power dynamics in a post-war society. Karoline’s journey is not just one of escape but of reclaiming her agency in a world that constantly tries to silence her.
Release Date and Availability
The Girl with the Needle premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024 and quickly generated buzz in the international film circuit. Following its premiere, the film secured distribution across multiple territories.
The official theatrical release date for The Girl with the Needle in Denmark was October 10, 2024. International viewers can catch the film in select cinemas and on streaming platforms starting December 2024. With its strong word-of-mouth, expect wider availability soon through art-house cinemas and digital platforms.
Why You Should Watch The Girl with the Needle
If you’re a fan of historical dramas with a psychological edge, The Girl with the Needle is a must-watch. It combines powerful storytelling, exceptional performances, and haunting visuals to deliver a film that lingers long after the credits roll.
It’s not just a movie, it’s a portrait of human resilience, moral complexity, and the darkness that can hide behind a smile.
Final Verdict
The Girl with the Needle is a chilling, atmospheric film that proves the power of slow-burning storytelling. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but for viewers who appreciate intelligent narratives, this film will satisfy on every level. With standout performances by Vic Carmen Sonne and Trine Dyrholm, and sharp direction from Magnus von Horn, it’s one of the most haunting films of the year.
Whether you’re drawn to historical settings, psychological thrillers, or just a good mystery with emotional weight, The Girl with the Needle deserves a spot on your watchlist.
