Land of Mine (2015) โ Review
Director: Martin Zandvliet
Starring: Roland Mรธller, Louis Hofmann, Joel Basman, Mikkel Boe Fรธlsgaard
Genre: War / Drama / History
Runtime: 101 minutes
Overview
Land of Mine (Under sandet) is a gripping Danish war drama that sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of World War II. Set in 1945, just after Germanyโs surrender, the film follows a group of young German POWs forced to clear thousands of landmines from Denmarkโs beaches. Under the harsh command of Danish Sergeant Carl Rasmussen (Roland Mรธller), these boysโmany barely out of their teensโmust navigate a dangerous and emotionally devastating mission.
With its haunting cinematography, intense performances, and moral complexity, Land of Mine is a powerful meditation on revenge, humanity, and the brutal cost of war.
Plot Summary
Post-War Retribution
After Nazi Germanyโs defeat, Danish authorities conscript German prisoners of warโmany of them teenagersโto remove over two million landmines buried along Denmarkโs coast. Danish Sergeant Rasmussen initially treats the German boys with cruelty, seeing them as enemies rather than victims.
Struggles & Bonding
As the boys face starvation, exhaustion, and constant fear of detonation, they form a fragile bond. Rasmussenโs hardened heart begins to soften, particularly toward Sebastian (Louis Hofmann), one of the more compassionate recruits.
Tragic Losses & Moral Reckoning
Despite their efforts, many boys die in horrifying explosions, intensifying the filmโs emotional weight. As Rasmussen questions the morality of punishing children for the sins of their nation, he is ultimately faced with a difficult choiceโwill he continue to enforce Denmarkโs vengeance, or will he show mercy?
Themes & Analysis
1. Warโs Aftermath & Moral Ambiguity
Rather than glorifying heroism, Land of Mine explores the messy moral consequences of war. It questions whether vengeance is justified when inflicted upon those who had no say in the conflict.
2. Humanity vs. Hatred
Rasmussenโs transformation from a vengeful officer to a reluctant protector mirrors the filmโs broader exploration of empathy in times of war.
3. The Tragic Cost of War on the Young
The film highlights the devastating impact of war on youth. These boys, many drafted into Hitlerโs army against their will, are caught in a cruel cycle of punishment and survival.
Performances & Direction
- Roland Mรธller (Sgt. Rasmussen): Delivers a complex performance, evolving from a harsh enforcer to a conflicted guardian.
- Louis Hofmann (Sebastian): Portrays quiet strength and innocence, making his characterโs fate especially poignant.
- Martin Zandvlietโs Direction: Uses stark cinematography and restrained storytelling to heighten tension and emotional depth.
Criticism & Weaknesses
- Predictability: While powerful, the emotional beats follow familiar war-film tropes.
- Limited Perspective: The film focuses almost entirely on the German boys, leaving little room for Danish viewpoints.
- Pacing Issues: Some moments feel stretched, especially in the slower middle section.
Final Thoughts
Land of Mine is a harrowing and deeply moving war drama that forces audiences to reconsider ideas of justice and revenge. Beautifully shot and emotionally devastating, itโs a must-watch for fans of historical films that challenge conventional narratives.
Final Rating: โญโญโญโญโญ (5/5)
