IN A BETTER WORLD

Year: 2010
USA: Sony Pictures Classics
UK: Axiom Films
Cast: Mikael Persbrandt, Trine Dyrholm, Ulrich Thomsen, Markus Rygaard, William Jøhnk Nielsen, Bodil Jørgensen, Elsebeth Steentoft, Martin Buch, Anette Støvlebæk, Kim Bodnia
Director: Susanne Bier
Country: Denmark
Language: Danish / Swedish / English
USA & UK: 113 mins
USA Rated: R for violent and disturbing content some involving preteens, and for language
UK Certificate: tbc
USA Release Date: 1 April 2011 (Limited Release - New York and Los Angeles)
UK Release Date: 19 August 2011 (Limited Release)

Synopsis

Anton (Mikael Persbrandt), a doctor, commutes between Denmark, where his family live , and his work at an African refugee camp. These two worlds are in stark contrast to each other, and he and his family are faced with conflicts that lead them towards difficult choices between revenge and forgiveness.

Anton and his wife Marianne (Trine Dyrholm) have two young sons, but are separated and face the likelihood of divorce. Their older, 10 year-old son Elias (Markus Rygaard) is being bullied at school, until he is defended by Christian (William Jøhnk Nielsen), a new boy who has just moved from London with his father, Claus (Ulrich Thomsen). Christian's mother recently lost her battle with cancer, and Christian is struggling to cope with her death.

Elias and Christian quickly form a strong bond, but when Christian involves Elias in a dangerous act of revenge with potentially tragic consequences, their friendship is tested and lives are put in danger. Ultimately, it is their parents who are left to help them come to terms with the complexity of human emotions, pain and empathy.

Winner 2011 Oscars Best Foreign Film
Winner 2011 Golden Globe Best Foreign Film