The Danish Poet 2006
Distributed by National Film Board of Canada, 1123 Broadway, Suite 307, New York, NY 10010; 800-542-2164
Produced by Mikrofilm AS and National Film Board of Canada
Directed by Torill Kove
DVD, color, 14 min.
Jr. High - Adult
Animation, Ethics, Storytelling, Writing
Date Entered: 10/27/2006
Reviewed by Margaret M. Reed, Riley-Hickingbotham Library, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia, ARDoes fate or coincidence determine our existence? Oscar-nominated animator Torill Kove probes this question in her latest animated short film, The Danish Poet.
The plot unfolds as a story within a story. The narrator ponders her origin by describing a seemingly unrelated series of events that lead to her parents’ first encounter. The courtship, separation, and eventual marriage of Kasper, a Danish poet, and Ingeborg, a Norwegian farmer’s daughter, create the circumstances for the meeting. Liv Ullman’s engaging narration keeps the story focused and interesting.
The technical and artistic qualities of The Danish Poet are exemplary. Clear, vibrant color complements the charming characters and magical settings. The music underscores the film’s range of action and emotion.
The film’s study guide includes discussion prompts on the filmmaker’s techniques, Scandinavian culture, and family relationships.
In 2006, The Danish Poet won multiple awards at the Aspen FilmFest as well as top honors at the Columbus International Film and Video Festival and the Worldwide Short Film Festival.
Highly recommended for school and public libraries.