Pelle the Conqueror (1987)
This has “movie to watch in school” all over it. I am sure it has been shown in many Scandinavian classrooms, but my Danish teacher showed us Krzysztof Kieślowski, which it took me more than 25 years to really appreciate.
Seeing this well renowned work in Danish cinematic history was a bit of a mixed experience. It is a tad heavy on the Hollywood-ish violins in the score, but I was really impressed by Max von Sydow’s performance and his portrayal of a struggling father that really tries to his best. I am closer to his age than Pelle’s, so I could easier put myself in his shoes. The young Pelle is convincing as well, but some of the other actors were a bit hokey in their acting style. The movie balances well showing the brutal hardships of working as farmhands for big landowners, with the everyday joys of life and small elements of hope for a better future.
On the whole the movie is rather uneven. It crams too many sidestories and themes that just detracted from the more interesting focus on Pelle and Lasse.
Oscar Best International Winners Ranked
Rating: 3