10 Must-Watch Danish Biopics

Description: Based on the novel by David Ebershoff, this film tells the story of Lili Elbe, one of the first known recipients of sex reassignment surgery, and her relationship with her wife, Gerda Wegener, both of whom were Danish artists.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Eddie Redmayne, who portrayed Lili Elbe.

Description: This film delves into the life of Johann Friedrich Struensee, a German doctor who became the lover of Queen Caroline Mathilde of Denmark, leading to significant political and social reforms. It's a gripping tale of love, power, and enlightenment in 18th-century Denmark.

Fact: The film was Denmark's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 85th Academy Awards, where it was nominated. It also won the Silver Bear for Best Actor at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Description: While not strictly a biopic, "The Hunt" explores the life of a man wrongly accused of child molestation, reflecting on societal issues in Denmark. It's included for its portrayal of contemporary Danish life and the impact of false accusations.

Fact: The film was nominated for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards and won the Best Actor award for Mads Mikkelsen at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: While not about a Dane, this documentary follows the life of Jackie Siegel, whose husband David Siegel is of Danish descent, offering a glimpse into the life of the wealthy and their connections to Denmark.

Fact: The film was nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 85th Academy Awards.

Description: This film recounts the events of April 1940 when King Haakon VII of Norway, who had Danish roots, refused to surrender to the invading German forces, showcasing the royal family's pivotal role in WWII.

Fact: Although primarily a Norwegian film, it highlights the Danish-Norwegian royal connection and was nominated for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards.

Description: This animated short film tells the story of a Danish poet who travels to Norway to meet his muse, providing a whimsical look at the cultural exchange between Denmark and Norway.

Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in

Description: Though not a traditional biopic, this film captures the essence of Danish family dynamics and societal issues, making it an important piece in understanding modern Danish culture.

Fact: "The Celebration" was the first film to be made under the Dogme 95 movement, a Danish film movement that aimed for a return to traditional values of storytelling.

Description: Another Dogme 95 film, it portrays a group of people who pretend to be mentally disabled to challenge societal norms, reflecting on Danish social issues.

Fact: The film was controversial for its content but was praised for its bold approach to storytelling.

Description: This film explores the life of a Danish businessman who inherits his father's company, delving into themes of family, legacy, and corporate ethics in Denmark.

Fact: The film was Denmark's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 76th Academy Awards.

Description: This political thriller follows a Danish Prime Minister's rise to power and the subsequent political intrigue, offering insight into Denmark's political landscape.

Fact: The film was inspired by real events in Danish politics, although it takes creative liberties with the narrative.