Sons of Denmark

In the 2019 Danish thriller, Sons of Denmark, director Ulaa Salim explores the complexity, strife, and tension that envelops a society overshadowed by the far-right political ideologies. The film brilliantly interweaves elements of intense drama, political commentary, and societal introspection with a thriller's edge. A compelling narrative, defined by its harrowing atmosphere, brings life to the movie's undertones, appealing to anyone eager to delve into the political climate's multi-faceted workings and implications.

Sons of Denmark delves into Denmark's future, precisely the year 2025—a time when the country is rattled by a horrific terror attack, inching the society towards the brink of drastic socio-political changes. Following these unfortunate events, a popular far-right radical group emerges, accelerating the already distressful atmosphere of xenophobia and anti-immigrant sentiment. This toxic climate fosters fear, mistrust, and anger, particularly amongst the country's minority ethnic population, who bears the brunt of racial prejudice and exclusion.

Amongst the several protagonists featured in the film, two characters stand out: Zaki Youssef playing the role of Malik, a 19-year-old boy of Arab descent, and Mohammed Ismail Mohammed, embodying the character of Ali, his elder brother.

We see Malik struggling with identity and acceptance as he navigates his life in a society increasingly hostile and unwelcoming towards him. The young boy, haunted by the loss of his parents, seeks solace in the support and reassurance provided by his elder brother, Ali. The bond shared by these marginalized siblings serves as one of the film's key emotional backbones. The narrative artfully captures their shared experiences, their common fears, and their determination to protect each other from the relentless waves of social intolerance.

As the political climate continues to worsen, a radical politician, named Martin Nordahl, played by Rasmus Bjerg, gains popularity. He capitalizes on the penetrating fear and fuels the fires of division and bigotry further. Nordahl, representing the National Movement, is about to become Denmark's next Prime Minister. Despite his charismatic exterior, he brews storms of xenophobic policies and harbors extremist ideologies leading Denmark toward a grave future.

Contrasting with Nordahl's rise in politics is Ali, who, driven by his concern for his younger brother and the marginalized ethnic group he represents, gets involved in a radical underground group. Ali's path is strewn with dangers and moral dilemmas, adding an extra layer of tension to the film's overall momentum.

The direction and cinematography of the film are exemplary. Ulaa Salim's vision shines through, translating the screenplay into a visual masterpiece. The atmosphere is layered with foreboding tension conveyed through the movie's bleak, washed-out palette and somber musical score. Salim exhibits a keen understanding of visual storytelling, particularly how to amplify emotions and intensify moments through sharp edits and lingering shots.

The performances offered by Zaki Youssef, Mohammed Ismail Mohammed, and Rasmus Bjerg are praiseworthy. Each actor has breathed life into their respective roles, delivering portrayals capable of eliciting empathy, anger, fear, and hope in equal measures. Their realistic depiction of the characters allows viewers to connect deeply with the story and its larger societal relevance.

In conclusion, Sons of Denmark is not just a movie—it's a poignant exploration of a society on the brink of irreversible change. The film assesses the impact of escalating extremism on a personal scale, crafting a deeply touching narrative that is both unsettling and thought-provoking. Its examination of the societal and political divisions reflect globally relevant themes, making it a crucial watch for audiences worldwide. By touching on these uncomfortable topics, Sons of Denmark stands as a brave film that is more than willing to stir conversations and debates post-viewing. It serves as a reminder and a wake-up call to societies across the globe as they grapple with the rise of far-right ideologies. It challenges viewers to question their perspectives, rethink their biases, and contemplate the true cost of division.