“The Hunt” also known as “Jagten” is a 2012 Danish psychological drama film directed by Thomas Vinterberg, starring Mads Mikkelsen. The movie is set in a small Danish village during Christmas and tells the story of Lucas, a divorced kindergarten teacher who becomes the victim of mass hysteria after being falsely accused of sexually abusing a child in his class.
The film received high praise for Mikkelsen’s acting and Vinterberg’s direction, with many calling it one of the best psychological dramas of its time. It competed at the 65th Cannes Film Festival, where Mikkelsen won the Best Actor Award for his role. The film was also shown at the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival and other festivals. It won the 2013 Nordic Council Film Prize and was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 71st Golden Globe Awards. It was Denmark’s submission for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 86th Academy Awards and made it to the final five nominees.
Where Was “Jagten” Filmed?
The filming of “The Hunt” took place over a short period. It started on 4 November 2011 and ended on 21 December 2011. The entire film was shot in Denmark, making good use of the country’s natural beauty and charming locations. The winter season added to the film’s atmosphere, perfectly matching its tense and emotional storyline.
Sjælland, Denmark: “The Hunt” was filmed in several locations across Denmark. One of the primary locations was Gadstrup, a small town on the island of Sjælland. This town provided the perfect setting for the movie’s village scenes, capturing the essence of a close-knit community.
Høje Taastrup Kirke in Taastrup: Another important location was Høje Taastrup Kirke, also known as Hoje Taastrup Church, in Taastrup. This church played a significant role in the movie, as it was the site for some of the key scenes, including those involving the local community’s gatherings and confrontations.
Other Filming Locations: In addition to Gadstrup and Høje Taastrup Kirke, the film was also shot at Benzonsdal in Ishøj, Sjælland. This location contributed to the movie’s rural and intimate setting, making the audience feel as though they were part of the small village.
The filmmakers also used Tranehuset on Tranemosevej in Ballerup. This location added another layer of authenticity to the film, with its traditional Danish architecture and serene environment, which contrasted sharply with the film’s intense and troubling storyline.
Mads Mikkelsen’s Performance: Mads Mikkelsen played the role of Lucas, the main character. His performance was highly praised and earned him the Best Actor Award at the 65th Cannes Film Festival. Many viewers and critics alike admired how Mikkelsen portrayed the emotional and psychological turmoil of a man falsely accused of a heinous crime. His performance is often regarded as one of the best in his career.
Cast of Jagten
“The Hunt” features a strong cast that brought the story to life. Alongside Mads Mikkelsen, the film stars Thomas Bo Larsen as Theo, Lucas’ best friend, and Annika Wedderkopp as Klara, the child who accuses Lucas. Other cast members include Lasse Fogelstrøm as Marcus, Lucas’ son, and Susse Wold as Grethe, Lucas’ boss. Anne Louise Hassing played Agnes, Theo’s wife, and Lars Ranthe played Bruun, Lucas’ friend. The cast also includes Alexandra Rapaport, Sebastian Bull Sarning, and Bjarne Henriksen.
“The Hunt” is a powerful and emotional film that uses its Danish locations to enhance the story’s depth and authenticity. The choice of locations, like Gadstrup, Høje Taastrup Kirke, and Benzonsdal, played a crucial role in creating the movie’s unique atmosphere. The film, with its strong performances and beautiful Danish settings, remains one of the most acclaimed psychological dramas of its time.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – The Hunt (Jagten)
Q: Where was “The Hunt (Jagten)” filmed?
A: “The Hunt (Jagten)” was filmed entirely in Denmark. The movie’s primary filming locations include Gadstrup, Sjælland; Høje Taastrup Kirke (Hoje Taastrup Church) in Taastrup; Benzonsdal in Ishøj, Sjælland; and Tranehuset on Tranemosevej in Ballerup.
Q: When was “The Hunt (Jagten)” filmed?
A: The filming of “The Hunt (Jagten)” took place from 4 November 2011 to 21 December 2011.
Q: When was “The Hunt (Jagten)” released?
A: “The Hunt (Jagten)” was released in the United States on January 10, 2013. It premiered at the 65th Cannes Film Festival and was later shown at the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival and other film festivals.
Q: Who is in the cast of “The Hunt (Jagten)”?
A: The main cast of “The Hunt (Jagten)” includes Mads Mikkelsen as Lucas, Thomas Bo Larsen as Theo, Annika Wedderkopp as Klara, Lasse Fogelstrøm as Marcus, Susse Wold as Grethe, Anne Louise Hassing as Agnes, and Lars Ranthe as Bruun.
Q: What awards did “The Hunt (Jagten)” receive?
A: “The Hunt (Jagten)” won several awards, including the Best Actor Award for Mads Mikkelsen at the 65th Cannes Film Festival. It was also nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 71st Golden Globe Awards and was one of the final five nominees for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 86th Academy Awards.
