by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Who doesn’t enjoy some good, old-fashioned historical epics? We remember the big sword and sandal ones like Ben-Hur and The Ten Commandments, and there is the David Lean variety, like Lawrence of Arabia, but few directors still take audiences to places like this. Ridley Scott has given us Napoleon, The Last Duel, and Gladiator, but we might want to look outside Hollywood for some great gems. How about Denmark? They have two great creators making their mark in the form of Nikolaj Arcel and Anders Thomas Jensen. What story do they have to tell? The one centered on Ludvig von Kahlen, The Promised Land.
But who is Kahlen, and what makes his story so interesting? Kahlen (played by Mads Mikkelsen) was a man of suspect origins, but who made his mark in the military. The Promised Land sees him tackle a rough and challenging heath in 18th century Denmark. But his mission for respect and honor is railroaded by political ambitions and purely privileged perspectives. Sprinkled in a bit of romance, and Arcel helms this new historical epic swirled together with a survival story and thriller. It plays on plenty of expected beats from similar films… but few have the edge that Arcel and his co-writer, Jensen, inject into it.
What is the darkness that makes this film stand out? Arcel and cinematographer Rasmus Videbæk deliver a strikingly beautiful film that certainly has its darkness about it. The heath originally feels desolate, and the coloring of the film captures that feeling. That makes it even more poignant when the colors of new foliage arrive. But the sequences of planned burning set at night are breathtaking, with their perfect match of blackness and the fiery embers of the flames. But the film is also tonally dark, as it pulls no punches in presenting the brutality that fills out this story. There are disturbing moments of mutilation and shocking death. But the romance feels warm and authentic, which is an impressive balancing act. The Promised Land does not have a shortage of violence and aggression, which will both put the audience on the edge of their seats.
How does this darkness bring meaning to the story of Kahlen? The film presents a brutal look at humanity and the world. There is so much potential for evil, and The Promised Land shows it in excess. Arcel is not afraid to point out the shortcomings of humanity, but he also shows the potential of love and human connection. Whether it is the love he develops for a royal or a parental bond he builds with a young outcast girl, they are both authentic and beautiful. Kahlen may have come into this story driven by the chip on his shoulder, but he leaves driven by what really matters in life. The path that leads him there is shocking, thrilling, and exciting. That journey is a murky one filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and greed.
What, or who, is the key to this impressive film? Mikkelsen. Many might know him for villain roles he has played in major Hollywood blockbusters, but those who know his Danish work know he is one of the most talented actors working today. Kahlen is a stoic and resolute man, and few actors can make that stoicism so interesting to watch. There are subtle choices and actions, from small head nods to smirks, that add complexities and depth to this character. Mikkelsen shows he can layer his characters with easy… or at least he makes it seem that way. Amanda Collin is an alluring presence as Mikkelsen’s love interest. Gustav Lindh imbues empathy into a man of faith who wants to do what is right in this dark world. Then you have Simon Bennebjerg, who is one of the most dastardly and repugnant villains in recent cinematic memory.
Does The Promised Land bring audiences to the cinematic one? The efforts of Arcel, Jensen, and Mikkelsen make it a must-see Danish period drama. Depth and darkness shroud this story, but it is the heart at the core that makes it feel special. The skeleton is quite familiar, but its meat and muscles make it an engaging, impactful, and harrowing experience that should make a splash in the International Film Oscar race.
Rating: Loved It
The Promised Land is currently playing in theaters
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