Movie Review: The Girl with the Needle – A Haunting Dive into Darkness
Introduction
The Girl with the Needle (2024) is a chilling historical drama that delves into the grim realities of post-World War I Denmark. Directed by Magnus von Horn, this film blends psychological horror with stark social commentary, leaving audiences both disturbed and mesmerized.
Genre: Psychological Drama / Historical Horror
Director: Magnus von Horn
Starring: Vic Carmen Sonne, Trine Dyrholm, Besir Zeciri
Release Date: 2024
Runtime: 1h 50m
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Set in 1920s Copenhagen, the film follows Karoline (Vic Carmen Sonne), a poverty-stricken factory worker who becomes entangled with a mysterious midwife, Dagmar (Trine Dyrholm). After an unwanted pregnancy, Karoline seeks Dagmar’s help, only to uncover a far more sinister operation lurking beneath the surface.
The film is loosely inspired by the true story of Dagmar Overbye, a Danish woman who infamously ran an illegal baby-killing operation in the early 20th century.
Review Breakdown
1. Cinematography & Atmosphere
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Visual Style: Gritty, desaturated tones enhance the bleak setting.
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Lighting & Shadows: Heavy use of dim, candlelit scenes create an eerie, claustrophobic mood.
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Set Design: Authentic 1920s aesthetic—grimy streets, cramped apartments, and haunting interiors.
Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – A masterclass in atmospheric dread.
2. Performances
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Vic Carmen Sonne (Karoline): Delivers raw vulnerability and desperation.
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Trine Dyrholm (Dagmar): Terrifyingly charismatic—her calm demeanor makes her even more unsettling.
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Besir Zeciri (Peter): A subtle but impactful supporting role.
Verdict: ★★★★★ (5/5) – Dyrholm steals every scene with her chilling presence.
3. Themes & Social Commentary
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Poverty & Desperation: Highlights the brutal choices women faced in a society with no safety nets.
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Morality & Evil: Explores how desperation can lead to monstrous acts.
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Historical Horror: Exposes real-life atrocities under the guise of “help.”
Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4/5) – Thought-provoking but emotionally exhausting.
4. Pacing & Narrative
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Slow Burn: Takes time to build tension, which may test some viewers’ patience.
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Third-Act Twist: The horror escalates abruptly but effectively.
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Ending: Ambiguous and haunting—no easy resolutions.
Verdict: ★★★☆☆ (3.5/5) – Rewarding for patient viewers, but uneven pacing.
Final Verdict
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Cinematography | ★★★★☆ |
| Performances | ★★★★★ |
| Story Depth | ★★★★☆ |
| Pacing | ★★★☆☆ |
| Overall Impact | ★★★★☆ |
Should You Watch It?
✅ Yes, if you like:
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Slow-burn psychological horror
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Historical dramas with dark themes
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Exceptional acting (especially Trine Dyrholm)
❌ Avoid if you dislike:
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Disturbing subject matter (infanticide, poverty)
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Minimal jump scares (it’s more atmospheric than outright scary)
Conclusion
The Girl with the Needle is not an easy watch, but it’s a powerful, well-crafted film that lingers long after the credits roll. With standout performances and a harrowing true-crime backdrop, it’s one of the most unsettling yet compelling dramas of 2024.
Final Score: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Where to Watch: Currently in select theaters (check local listings).