Danish director dismisses diversity question: Film set in 1750s Denmark.
A Danish Actor and Director Responds to Questions About Diversity in “The Promised Land”
During a panel discussion at the Venice Film Festival, actor Mads Mikkelsen and filmmaker Nikolaj Arcel were asked about the lack of diversity in their film, ”The Promised Land.” The question sparked a lively response from the duo.
“If it’s not because of artistic reasons, but because of a lack of diversity this film cannot compete in the Academy Awards. Are you worried about that?” the journalist asked.
“Are you?” Mikkelsen quickly retorted, with a laugh and a shake of his head.
“You’re putting us on the spot, so you answer the question,” he continued.
Arcel also chimed in, defending their casting choices. He explained that the film is set in 1750s Denmark, where people of color were extremely rare. However, they did include a storyline about a girl of color facing racism, highlighting the historical context.
“First of all, the film takes place in Denmark in the 1750s. We do have a big plot line about a girl of color who is being subjected to racism. It was very rare to have people of color in Denmark in the 1700s, almost nobody. She was probably at the time the only one in the entire country of Denmark,” Arcel explained.
Arcel also addressed the new diversity requirements in Hollywood, stating that they weren’t a consideration during the movie’s development. He emphasized that the film aimed to accurately portray the historical period.
“It wasn’t a thought in our mind. I think it would be a little weird. It’s just historical and how it was in the 1750s,” Arcel added.
Despite the criticism, “The Promised Land” tells the story of Ludvig Kahlen, a poor soldier who arrives in Denmark in 1755 with dreams of cultivating the land. However, he faces opposition from landowner Frederik De Schinkel, who claims ownership of the land.
The journalist’s question referred to the new Oscars eligibility requirements, which mandate specific diversity criteria for Best Picture nominees starting in 2024. These guidelines focus on on-screen representation, themes, narratives, and creative leadership within the project team.
Overall, Mikkelsen and Arcel defended their artistic choices and highlighted the historical accuracy of their film, “The Promised Land.”
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