Denmark (2019): Cast, Ratings & Plot
Denmark is a 2019 comedy directed by Adrian Shergold, starring Rafe Spall as Herb, Simone Lykke and Joel Fry. It runs 1 hour 31 minutes. Its Echo Score is 64/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 31m (91 min)
- Director
- Adrian Shergold
- Genre
- Comedy
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- BBC Film
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Denmark About?
The premise of Denmark without spoilers. The whole story is in the plot summary further down.
Herb's life is in shambles—he’s lost his welfare, struggles to find work, and can’t connect with his son, all while dealing with a noisy neighbor and a poor diet. Desperate for a change, he learns that Danish prisoners enjoy comfortable living conditions, including jobs, healthcare, and even HDTVs. Abandoning his dismal life, Herb smuggles himself to Denmark, intending to rob a bank. However, he unexpectedly finds companionship with a local barmaid and a stray dog, leading him to question if prison is truly his best option for a better life.
Denmark Cast & Characters
Rafe Spall leads the cast as Herb, with Simone Lykke as Mathilde and Joel Fry as Kirk. Directed by Adrian Shergold; 20 actors are credited in all.
-
Director Adrian Shergold
-
Rafe Spall as Herb - Simone Lykke as Mathilde
-
Joel Fry as Kirk - Paul Barber as Kirk's Dad
Also Starring in Denmark
· 16 more- Tim Woodward Blind Idris
- Thomas W. Gabrielsson Chresten
- Steve Speirs Harry the Horse
- Benedikte Hansen Sofie
- Ifan Huw Dafydd Landlord
- Rosalind March Herb's Mother
- Ri Richards Rose
- Darren Evans Hywel (Benefits Officer)
- Jâms Thomas Dock Worker
- Jeanette Lindbæk Ticket Office Lady
- Elis James Aubrey
- Martin Frislev Ammitsbøl Bar Boss
- Russell Gomer Chip Shop Man
- Jon Bjarnason Guitar Player
- Vicktoria Noell Ingberg Barmaid
- Emma Katrine Zeilau Thorsted Krystal
Denmark Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 64/100, strongest in character & emotion (80) and weakest in story & flow (38).
Denmark Echo Score Breakdown
Denmark delivers a stark social portrait anchored by strong performances, yet its narrative falters under implausible plot turns and an unsatisfying conclusion. Reviewers commend the film's realistic tone, nuanced acting and occasional visual charm, but repeatedly note pacing issues and a lack of coherent story arc. The net impression is a mixed experience where the film’s merits are offset by structural weaknesses.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 73
In terms of art and craft the film shows moments of visual appeal, with scenic compositions and occasional arthouse cinematography that reviewers find commendable. Direction is generally viewed as competent, supporting the social commentary without major technical flaws. However, occasional uneven editing and a reliance on conventional framing keep the overall craftsmanship from reaching higher excellence.
- Character & Emotion 80
Character work stands out through Rafe Spall's memorable performance and a cast that conveys genuine hardship. Critics highlight the nuanced portrayal of the protagonist’s desperation and subtle chemistry with supporting roles. While some mention a thin romantic subplot, the overall consensus is that acting depth and emotional resonance compensate for limited character development elsewhere.
- Story & Flow 38
The story suffers from implausible plot devices, rushed pacing, and an anticlimactic ending that many reviewers find unsatisfying. Critics point out gaps in narrative logic, especially the abrupt journey to Denmark and underdeveloped romantic elements. Although the first half offers a compelling social premise, the second half’s unevenness undermines overall coherence and originality.
- Sensory Experience 72
Sensory elements receive positive notes for atmospheric music, particularly Richard Hawley's soundtrack, and a modest visual style that captures bleak British settings. Reviewers appreciate the tonal consistency and occasional striking scenery. Minor criticisms arise around sound design inconsistencies, but the overall sensory experience is regarded as solid and supportive of the film’s mood.
- Rewatch Factor 58
Rewatch potential is divided; some viewers report lingering emotional impact and a desire to revisit the film’s social themes, while others are deterred by the unsatisfying conclusion and narrative lapses. The mixed reception suggests that while the film can resonate on repeat viewings for certain audiences, its structural flaws limit broader replay value.
Denmark Plot Summary
What happens in Denmark from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 13 key events. The opening is below; the full summary is a 2-minute read.
Spoilers ahead
Herb finds himself leading a directionless life in a small Welsh valley town, grappling with the struggles of being unemployed and facing imminent cuts to his meager benefits. Having gone through a divorce, he is now distanced from his young son and resides in a cramped and dingy basement flat, plagued by a noisy neighbor who seems to have an endless supply of loud music. His situation takes a turn when, after being mugged, he stumbles upon a TV report revealing that Danish prisoners enjoy a superior quality of life, complete with regular activities, accessible healthcare, and hotel-like accommodations featuring televisions and en suite bathrooms.
Full summary
The whole story of Denmark, scene by scene
Denmark Trailers & Videos
The trailer of Denmark.
How Well Do You Know Denmark?
10 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.
Question 1 of 10
- Question 1: not answered
- Question 2: not answered
- Question 3: not answered
- Question 4: not answered
- Question 5: not answered
- Question 6: not answered
- Question 7: not answered
- Question 8: not answered
- Question 9: not answered
- Question 10: not answered
What country is Herb originally from?
Cars in Denmark
19 cars on screen, including the 1977 Lada 1600 2106 and the 2017 BMW 320d GT F34.
-
1977 Lada 1600 2106 Important role -
2017 BMW 320d GT F34 Minor role -
2006 Optare Solo M880 SL Minor role -
Scania T 164 L 580 Minor role
Denmark Also Known As
8 alternative titles, including “One Way to Denmark” and “Do Dánska”.
- Also known as
-
- One Way to Denmark
- Do Dánska
- דנמרק
- Dánia
- Dania
- Danemarca
- Дания
- 丹麦之旅
Seen Denmark?
Denmark FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date
Runtime, release date, director, cast and post-credit scenes of Denmark, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Denmark?
Denmark runs 1 hour 31 minutes (91 minutes).
When was Denmark released?
Denmark was released on December 5, 2019.
Who directed Denmark?
Denmark was directed by Adrian Shergold.
More films by Adrian Shergold Who is in the cast of Denmark?
Denmark stars Rafe Spall as Herb, Simone Lykke as Mathilde and Joel Fry as Kirk, among 20 credited actors.
Does Denmark have a post-credit scene?
No. Denmark has no extra scene during or after the credits.
Coming soon to your phone
The Plot Explained Movie Summary App
From blockbusters to hidden gems: plot summaries, endings explained and timelines on your phone. Save your favorites and never miss a twist again.
Be the first to know when it launches. Your email stays private, always. Learn more about the app
