A retired military captain, Ludvig Kahlen (Mads Mikkleson), arrives in 1755 on the barren Jutland (region of Denmark) w/ a single goal: to follow his king’s call to cultivate the heath, and thus get rich/earn a noble title. However, the wealthy/powerful/cruel landowner, Frederik De Schinkel (Simon Bennebjerg), believes that this heath belongs to him (NOT the king). To make matters more complicated, De Schinkel’s beautiful/unmarried cousin, Edel Helene (Kristine Kujath Thorp), comes to admire Kahlen. After two of De Schinkel’s servants, Johannes and Anna Barbara (Amanda Collin), run away and seek refuge w/ Kahlen, the landowner (also local judge) does everything to drive Kahlen away (and get revenge).

I heard about this movie while watching coverage (via YouTube) of the Venice Film Festival in Fall 2023. This film (Danish title: Bastarden) was the official submission of Denmark for Best International Feature Film at the 2024 Academy Awards. It was directed by Nikolaj Arcel and based on a novel by Ida Jessen (loosely inspired by real historical characters). If you miss “old-fashioned” epics (visually and thematically), then I highly recommend it; fans of the Western genre may also enjoy The Promised Land (available to rent on Amazon Prime). There are at least 2 scenes which I felt were callbacks to The Godfather; y’all can let me know IF you notice that. Mikkleson (who was a dancer for 8 yrs. before falling into acting) has great screen presence; he can do a LOT w/ just his eyes and facial expressions. Keep in mind that this is a time when men are trying to hold in emotions.

[1] …an engaging epic, a character study and a moving drama all in one. With a strong screenplay examining interesting themes, witty, minimalist dialogue and well-drawn characters, the narrative consistently engages. The cinematography and production design are striking, while the score is subtly powerful.

[2] This film uses all the tools of the Western genre: wide landscapes, settlers developing harsh lands, the fight against greed, injustice, cruelty and impunity of the ruling class, a stubborn loner who learns to follow his heart and old vs. new technologies (in this case- agricultural), settlers fighting rich landowners, racial prejudices and- of course- a showdown with a powerful obligatory scene.

[3] First of all Mads Mikkelsen is a phenomenal actor and the perfect choice to play Ludvig Kahlen. He shines especially in the scenes, where he “only” acts out pure emotion with his facial expressions without having to say a word. […]

Throughout the movie you feel all kinds of emotions yourself: anger, hatred, sadness, frustration, disgust, joy, relief,.. I felt it all. It is a rollercoaster ride of emotions.

-Excerpts from IMDb reviews