The Girl with the Needle (2024) – A Haunting Historical Horror Film Based on True Events
Meta Description:
Discover The Girl with the Needle (2024), a chilling Danish horror-drama inspired by true crime. Plot, cast, release date, and why this film is a must-watch.
Introduction: What Is The Girl with the Needle About?
The Girl with the Needle (Danish: Pigen med nålen) is a 2024 historical horror film directed by Magnus von Horn. Set in post-WWI Denmark, the movie tells the disturbing true story of a baby farmer who murdered infants in Copenhagen.
Quick Facts
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Release Date: May 16, 2024 (Cannes Film Festival premiere)
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Genre: Historical Horror / Psychological Drama
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Director: Magnus von Horn
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Starring: Vic Carmen Sonne, Trine Dyrholm
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Based on: The real-life Dagmar Overbye case (infamous Danish baby killer)
Plot Summary: A Dark Tale of Desperation & Crime
The film follows:
✔ Karin (Vic Carmen Sonse), a struggling factory worker who becomes pregnant out of wedlock.
✔ Dagmar Overbye (Trine Dyrholm), a seemingly kind midwife who offers to “help” unwanted babies find homes—for a price.
✔ A horrifying secret: Dagmar is actually a serial killer who murdered over 25 infants in the early 1900s.
As Karin uncovers the truth, she must fight to save her child from Dagmar’s deadly schemes.
Cast & Key Characters
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Vic Carmen Sonne | Karin (lead protagonist) |
| Trine Dyrholm | Dagmar Overbye (villain) |
| Besir Zeciri | Karin’s love interest |
Why Trine Dyrholm’s Performance Stands Out:
Her portrayal of Dagmar Overbye is both chilling and tragic, making her one of the most unsettling horror villains in recent years.
Themes & Historical Context
✔ Women’s struggles in 1920s Denmark – Poverty, shame around unwed mothers
✔ True crime horror – Based on one of Denmark’s most infamous killers
✔ Psychological terror – More atmospheric dread than gore
Release Date & Where to Watch
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Premiered at Cannes 2024 (Critical acclaim)
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Theatrical Release (Denmark): May 2024
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International Streaming: Expected on Amazon Prime Video / MUBI later in 2024
Why This Film Is a Must-Watch
✅ Based on a shocking true story – A forgotten chapter of Danish crime history
✅ Gothic, eerie cinematography – Feels like a dark fairy tale
✅ Awards buzz – Trine Dyrholm could win Best Actress nominations
Final Verdict: A Disturbing Masterpiece
If you love historical horror films like The Witch or Hereditary, The Girl with the Needle will leave you haunted. Its mix of psychological terror, social commentary, and stunning visuals makes it one of 2024’s standout films.
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