When winter blankets Denmark, there’s no better escape than curling up with a good movie or TV series. For newcomers, immersing yourself in Danish cinema isn’t just about entertainment—it’s an engaging way to deepen your understanding of the Danish language and culture.
Many who have recently settled in Denmark share their enthusiasm for popular series like *Borgen*, *The Bridge*, and *The Killing*, alongside critically acclaimed films such as *Another Round*, which claimed the Oscar for Best International Feature, and *The Hunt*, both featuring the charismatic Mads Mikkelsen—Denmark’s latest cinematic gem.
I had a delightful encounter with Mads at the Copenhagen Opera not long ago; there he was, alone in the lobby, savoring a glass of champagne, seemingly unbothered by the bustling crowd around him.
If you venture into Danish films, starting with English subtitles is a good strategy. But as your grasp of the language improves, switching to Danish subtitles can be incredibly beneficial. It’s a fantastic way to bridge the gap between spoken and written Danish, which often diverges significantly for non-native speakers.
A Cinematic Legacy Since 1897
Denmark’s commitment to film spans over a century, beginning with its first short silent film, *Driving with Greenland Dogs*, shot in 1897—just a brief 30 seconds of a man navigating a snowy Copenhagen park on a dogsled.
Shortly after, the Nordisk Film company was established in 1906 and proudly holds the title of the world’s oldest continuously operating film studio. Today, a trip to the cinema often begins with the familiar Nordisk Film logo flashing on the screen.
No matter your genre preference, Denmark has likely crafted something to fit your taste. As a fan of film noir, I particularly enjoyed *Two Minutes Too Late*, starring Poul Reichhardt, who resembles a Danish Cary Grant—a dashing playboy embroiled in blackmail that takes a deadly turn. Did he murder his old flame? The suspense is palpable!
The Endearing Olsen Gang
If laughter is more your style, look no further than the beloved Olsen Gang series. This trio of bumbling, loveable crooks—whose antics are refreshingly non-violent—has captured the hearts of audiences with their charming incompetence.
Each film begins with Egon Olsen stepping out of prison to reunite with his sidekicks, Benny and Kjeld, as they contrive increasingly elaborate heists. Yet, as is often the case, their plans hilariously unravel, leaving Egon back in cuffs by the end.
Father of Four: A Family Classic
For younger viewers, the *Father of Four* series also delights. Spanning decades, it follows a single father and his four spirited children—which seems to be a revolving door for actors. The latest installment from 2018 features the family vacationing at a resort, clashing with a rival family that places immense pressure on their kids to excel.
Ultimately, the moral of the story shines through when both families join together on stage to sing “You Are Good Enough as You Are,” an uplifting anthem echoing Denmark’s famed *Jante Law*, which emphasizes humility and collective kinship.
Accessing Danish Films for Free
Eager to dive into Danish cinema? If you’re in Denmark, your local library offers free access to a wealth of films through a service called Filmstripen. By signing up with your CPR number, you can stream a treasure trove of Danish content, akin to Netflix—albeit with a distinctly Danish flair.
This service is exclusive to Denmark, as is *Denmark on Film*, which showcases documentaries and archival footage from throughout the nation, including Greenland and the Faroe Islands. A delightful feature allows you to explore historical footage based on geographic locations—simply find your town or street on the map for a trip down memory lane.
Vintage TV Treasures
The national broadcaster, DR.DK, boasts a collection of classic Danish films and TV series that are often accessible beyond Denmark’s borders, especially with the aid of a VPN.
If you appreciate vintage fare, consider watching *Matador*, a beloved multi-part series that weaves together the lives of residents in a fictional Danish town during and after World War II. Its rich tapestry of storylines and characters—spanning the wealthy and the impoverished, the Resistance and the Nazis—offers a gripping viewing experience that’s perfect for long winter evenings.
For a lighter touch, check out *House on Christianshavn*, a comedic exploration set in a working-class district of 1970s Copenhagen, filled with humorous encounters and misunderstandings.
Programming for All Ages
DR.DK also offers a delightful array of children’s programming. This can be invaluable for adults embarking on their Danish learning journey, as the language used is simple and the catchy children’s songs are guaranteed to stick in your memory.
Tax-Funded Brilliance
All these cinematic offerings are supported by Denmark’s robust tax system. The Danish Film Institute, under the Ministry of Culture, funds scriptwriting, production, and development—providing valuable grants that sustain the industry. Transparency is key, with information readily available online regarding film funding allocations.
Moreover, major streaming platforms like Netflix are mandated to support Danish-language productions, with several new series emerging from collaborations with the platform.
This proactive approach ensures that Danish cinema remains vibrant and relevant, preserving its unique voice in an increasingly English-dominated entertainment landscape.
