Der kommer en dag (English The Day Will Come) is a 2016 Danish drama film directed by Jesper W. Nielsen. Set in 1967, the film follows two inseparable brothers, Elmer and Erik, who are taken from their ill mother and placed in the Gudbjerg Home for Boys, an orphanage where violence and humiliation are part of everyday life. The story is based on real events from a boy’s home called ‘Godhavn’, where many boys were victims of violent and sexual abuse and medical experiments. The film explores themes of survival, resilience, and the bond between siblings in the face of adversity.
Plot Summary
The film begins with Elmer and Erik living in a working-class neighborhood in Copenhagen. Their mother is struggling with illness, and when she is hospitalized, the brothers are sent to the Gudbjerg Home for Boys. The orphanage is a place frozen in time, where the headmaster, Frederik Heck, practices his own brand of philosophy and regulation. Unruly boys are transformed into obedient citizens at any cost. From their very first day, the boys understand that their freedom is lost, and a daily struggle for survival has begun. Elmer, who has a vivid imagination and dreams of becoming an astronaut, faces constant challenges due to his clubfoot. Erik, the older brother, becomes his protector, and together they navigate the harsh realities of the orphanage. As they endure the abuse and mistreatment, they find solace in their bond and a shared hope for a better future.
Cast and Performances
The film features a talented cast that brings the story to life with powerful performances
- Lars Mikkelsenas Headmaster Frederik Heck
- Sofie Gråbølas Teacher Lilian
- Harald Kaiser Hermannas Elmer
- Albert Rudbeck Lindhardtas Erik
- Lars Rantheas Overlærer Toft Lassen
- Søren Sætter-Lassenas Teacher Aksel
The performances, especially by the young actors portraying Elmer and Erik, have been praised for their depth and authenticity. Lars Mikkelsen’s portrayal of the authoritarian headmaster adds a chilling element to the film, while Sofie Gråbøl’s character provides a glimpse of compassion amidst the cruelty.
Critical Reception
Der kommer en dag received critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of institutional abuse and the resilience of the human spirit. The film won six prizes at the 2017 Robert Awards, including Best Danish Film. Critics have lauded the film for its compelling storytelling and strong performances. One reviewer noted, The acting in this film is, without exception, very good. The two young actors who play Elmer and his older brother, Erik, hold the whole film together brilliantly with their nuanced performancessource.
Themes and Analysis
The film delves into several poignant themes
- Abuse and TraumaIt highlights the physical, sexual, and emotional abuse suffered by the boys in the orphanage, shedding light on a dark chapter of Denmark’s history.
- Brotherhood and LoyaltyThe bond between Elmer and Erik is central to the narrative, showcasing the strength found in familial love and loyalty.
- Hope and SurvivalDespite the oppressive environment, the brothers’ dreams and imagination serve as a means of escape and survival.
- Institutional CorruptionThe film critiques the authoritarian practices of the orphanage and the systemic failures that allowed such abuses to occur.
Through its raw and emotional storytelling, Der kommer en dag encourages viewers to reflect on the importance of compassion, justice, and the need to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Der kommer en dag is a harrowing yet inspiring film that brings to light the stories of those who suffered in Denmark’s orphanages. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope and love. The film’s compelling performances and poignant narrative make it a significant contribution to Danish cinema and an important work for audiences worldwide to witness and reflect upon.