One of the most striking aspects of the film is its unusual aspect ratio—1.50:1 (or 3:2), rather than the more common widescreen format. This narrower frame creates a confined, intimate feeling, emphasizing Karoline’s isolation and the oppressive nature of her circumstances. It draws the audience deeper into her experience, making the film feel more immediate and emotionally raw.
Very slow movie, but packs a bit of a punch at the end.
Wow that was dark. I was completely transfixed from start to finish though. Gorgeous black and white cinematography make every frame of Karoline’s struggle to pull herself out of poverty absolutely stunning to look at. Sonne and Dyrholm and both magnificent as the leads—Sonne portraying Karoline, and Dyrholm as Dagmar, a woman who helps Karoline in a moment of desperation. This film kept me on edge constantly taking narrative turns that I did not expect which made it even more surprising to learn that it was based on true events. Highly recommend, but be warned—this definitely visits some dark alleys.
A film about mothers
Enjoyed the altered MUBI logo followed by suffocating silence followed by some remarkably terrifying images. What a start!
Googled an actor and accidentally caught a spoiler 😭 (had no idea about this story until researching it afterwards)
Gonna have to try ether now
Harrowing, crushing, and brilliant art-house cinema.
Reviews
The Girl with the Needle
RichG13 reviewed
The Girl with the Needle
February 28, 2025One of the most striking aspects of the film is its unusual aspect ratio—1.50:1 (or 3:2), rather than the more common widescreen format. This narrower frame creates a confined, intimate feeling, emphasizing Karoline’s isolation and the oppressive nature of her circumstances. It draws the audience deeper into her experience, making the film feel more immediate and emotionally raw.
Kevin Ward reviewed
The Girl with the Needle
July 1, 2025Wow that was dark. I was completely transfixed from start to finish though. Gorgeous black and white cinematography make every frame of Karoline’s struggle to pull herself out of poverty absolutely stunning to look at. Sonne and Dyrholm and both magnificent as the leads—Sonne portraying Karoline, and Dyrholm as Dagmar, a woman who helps Karoline in a moment of desperation. This film kept me on edge constantly taking narrative turns that I did not expect which made it even more surprising to learn that it was based on true events. Highly recommend, but be warned—this definitely visits some dark alleys.
cultfilmliker reviewed
The Girl with the Needle
June 17, 2025A film about mothers
Enjoyed the altered MUBI logo followed by suffocating silence followed by some remarkably terrifying images. What a start!
Googled an actor and accidentally caught a spoiler 😭 (had no idea about this story until researching it afterwards)
Gonna have to try ether now
