Mads Mikkelsen has justifiably established himself as the face of modern Danish cinema. Mikkelsen had originally intended to follow a dance profession, but after ten years had changed his mind and enrolled in a Theater Academy. He was already a well-known character in Denmark in the late 1990s and early 2000s, but his evil part in Casino Royale helped him gain international fame.
A Royal Affair (2012)
A Royal Affair is a great choice if you want to see Mads Mikkelsen in a period drama. And it drew a lot of positive critical attention, which it deserved. In 2013, this Danish historical drama received Academy and Golden Globe nominations for Best Foreign Film. Mikkelsen portrays King Christian VII of Denmark’s physician, who is having an affair with his wife. Mikkelsen’s performance is so good that you wish he was placed in more historical films. This is the film for you if you enjoy Nordic films set in the eighteenth century.
Another Round (2020)
In the role of teacher Martin, Mikkelsen once again demonstrates his versatility as an actor. And, to be honest, we just need more movies in which the Danish actor dances when inebriated. The film not only effectively conveys the feeling of being lost in life, but it also addresses the societal issue of Scandinavian drinking culture. Another Round won many awards, including Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards and Best Film Not in the English Language at the BAFTA Awards.
The Green Butchers (2003)
Mikkelsen grew familiar with cannibalism and butchering people on-screen long before he was hired in the role of Hannibal Lecter. The Green Butchers is a dark comedy about two buddies, Svend and Bjarne, who decide to create their own butcher shop and wind themselves in some very nefarious situations. Even by European standards, the film is strange at times, but it demonstrates that Mikkelsen can play miserable small guys as well.
After the Wedding (2006)
The true question is whether Mads Mikkelsen has ever played a joyful character in a film. We simply want to see him chuckle on television every now and again, but that’s probably too much to expect. But there’s no denying that he’s a fantastic fit for these theatrical characters dealing with inner turmoils, such as Jacob in After The Wedding, who discovers he has a daughter and that his ex-wife is dying. Of course, we can’t forget about the family drama and tensions that are woven into the compelling narrative thread.
Riders of Justice (2020)
Mikkelsen was nominated not once, but twice for a major Danish awards show, Zulu, for his portrayal as Markus in Riders of Justice, as well as his work in Another Round. He portrays a soldier who comes home after learning that his wife was murdered in a train tragedy while on deployment. When a statistician indicates that the collision was caused by a violent biker gang, they form a band of men to exact vengeance. Before the tale really gets going, there’s a lot of character development to go through, so expect an emotional rollercoaster.
Men and Chicken (2015)
If you ever decide to see it, there’s a good chance you’ll question yourself, “What is this movie?” The film is about a strange journey of a family trying to unite and help each other. Men and Chicken allows you to completely appreciate Mikkelsen’s exceptional acting abilities. He fits in so well with his role of Elias that you nearly forget he’s in the movie. If you want a nice chuckle, we recommend watching this film.
Casino Royale (2006)
Mads Mikkelsen has landed the role of Le Chiffre in the James Bond series, in addition to being a member of the Star Wars and Harry Potter franchises. Mikkelsen’s performance as an enemy banker who supports a global terrorist group allowed us to witness him give it his all while tormenting James Bond (Daniel Craig). Casino Royale was a starting stone for many people who went on to become die-hard followers of the James Bond franchise, as seen by its $616 million worldwide profit.
The Hunt (2012)
Even if you don’t like Mikkelsen, you can’t deny that his performance in The Hunt was widely lauded. He portrays the role of Lucas, a teacher who is falsely accused of sexually abusing one of his students. It focuses on the widespread panic that comes with it, as well as the effects of childhood neglect on a child. Even though there is no child abuse in the film, it is tough to watch. The Hunt was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film in the 71st Golden Globe Awards.
