Director/writer Jacob Thomas Pilgaard delivers and dramatic and heart wrenching drama that will captivate audiences of all backgrounds. ‘The Deportation of a Model Citizen’ subtly, yet effectively tackles an important topic that isn’t spoken about enough or in the same way. Pilgaard takes his time to finesse the story and let the drama unfold naturally, making for a bigger impact.

In the past, we have seen many films try to handle complex messages. Many of which try to force certain opinions or ideas to the viewer with poor results, often due to the writing and execution. However in this case, Pilgaard has a very clear direction for this film which proves his ability as both a writer and a director. The writing is subtle and without too much exposition, allowing the visuals and performances to convey all the raw emotion needed to make a connection with the characters. The film has a moody and powerful tone throughout, giving it a sense of purpose and realism. It’s an exceptional film from Pilgaard that we can’t praise enough.

Now onto the performances, which all have their own merits. Thalita Beltrâo Sørensen was perfectly chosen for the role of Aida. Not only does she portray the character with depth and realism, but she is exceptionally authentic with the subject matter she’s having to deliver. The minimal dialogue and inner turmoil from Aida feels real and right for the character’s age. A less experienced writer would give far too much dialogue to this role and have them delivering long monologues for the sake of explaining the situation. But not in this case, Sørensen makes you feel for the character and keep you invested.

For the duo roles of ‘Lasse’ and ‘Marcel’ played by Joey Moe and Mads Hjulmand, we are given two contrasted characters that share a real familiarity with each other. Their roles are clearly defined from the opening scene and you know where you stand with them. Mads Hjulmand portrays his role with a sense of compassion and understanding, allowing for Aida to say her goodbyes and progress the story. Hjulmand stands out easily in this supporting role and deserves recognition. Marcel is a great foil for Joey Moe’ character Lasse as it builds a friction between them as we start to realise if what they’re doing is right or wrong. Joe Moe’ character arc is expertly written and portrayed. To begin with it would be easy to write off Lasse as a typical ‘henchman’ doing his job. But as the film continues we see there is growth and understanding from him that you can’t help but get behind. Moe keeps his emotions just under the skin so as to keep the ‘tough’ image of a policeman yet allow just enough for us to connect with him.

The same can be said for the smaller roles played by Søren Vejby, Cecilie Bogø Bach and Tine Gotthelf, all of whom stand out in their scenes and help to make that emotional connection with Aida and the people that she cares for. The casting of these roles were perfect.

As for the production, the entire film has been made with precision and a clear direction for the look and feel of it. Director of photography Kristian Arbs has captured the film in a way that feels dramatic and powerful to watch. We see many creative and unique angles throughout the film that showcases Arbs attention to detail. The use of natural light is also worth mentioning as it gives the film a dynamic and gritty look that blends in seamlessly with the rich colour grade. The sound design by Rune Klausen is flawless and meticulously designed to perfection. The same can be said of the editing by Steen Bech that lets the scenes play out naturally giving the actors time to deliver their performances without the need for awkward cuts. Everything flows well in this film and could go unnoticed by the average viewer as it is so subtle and effective. The locations and Christmas setting also make a big impact on the film, especially at the very end.

On to the score by Anne Rømer which is a stand out piece of the film. Rømer clearly understands the direction and tone for the film set out by Pilgaard, and expertly creates a melancholy score that not only fits the film but also strengthens the performances. The score is slow paced and delicate, not overshadowing the performances but instead raises the emotion of the film. The score reminds us of work by Hildur Guðnadóttir which is quite an achievement. The abstract and flowing sounds help set this film apart and put it into a certain calibre of film.

If you’re looking to watch a film that will move you and make an impression on you, then this will do just that. Regardless of the language you speak, The Deportation of a Model Citizen will connect with you and leave you wanting more. We are proud to give this film 5 stars…

— APEX Film Awards