Magnus von Horn’s latest feature, The Girl with the Needle, will arrive in UK and Irish cinemas on January 10, 2025, distributed by MUBI. Known for tackling complex themes, von Horn directs a historical drama inspired by true events that first premiered at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Set in post-WWI Copenhagen, the film delves into the life of a young woman as she struggles through hardship, abandonment, and moral dilemmas.
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Co-written by Line Langebek Knudsen, The Girl with the Needle follows Karoline, portrayed by Vic Carmen Sonne, a factory worker who finds herself unemployed, alone, and expecting a child. When Dagmar, played by Trine Dyrholm, offers her a position as a wet-nurse at a hidden adoption agency, Karoline’s life takes a turn. As the two women form a strong bond, a startling discovery shifts the story, forcing Karoline to confront the reality of her situation.
Von Horn, whose previous works include The Here After and Sweat, brings a raw perspective to this narrative, exploring themes of survival and the human need for connection. Set in the 1920s, the film reflects the emotional weight of its characters’ lives, with von Horn’s direction focusing on the impact of their choices in a challenging social environment.
The film features an accomplished cast, including Trine Dyrholm, Besir Zeciri, and Joachim Fjelstrup, alongside Vic Carmen Sonne in the lead role. Sonne’s portrayal of Karoline captures both the vulnerability and resilience of a woman navigating societal constraints. Dyrholm, known for her roles in The Commune and Queen of Hearts, brings depth to the character of Dagmar, whose intentions remain complex and unpredictable.
Produced by Nordisk Film Creative Alliance, in collaboration with Lava Films and other European partners, The Girl with the Needle reflects a strong collaborative effort across countries and film institutes, including support from the Danish and Polish Film Institutes. This pan-European backing highlights the film’s relevance and the anticipation surrounding its UK and Ireland release.
Von Horn, a graduate of the Polish National Film School, is celebrated for exploring cross-cultural stories and working in various languages. His earlier films, were recognized at Cannes and cemented his reputation as a distinctive voice in cinema. With The Girl with the Needle, von Horn brings his storytelling style to a new historical setting, promising a film that speaks to universal themes of connection and survival.
