Danish Stars Discuss PTSD in New Films at Tallinn Festival

Danish actors Dar Salim and Trine Dyrholm shared insights into their latest projects at the 29th edition of the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in Estonia. Both performers tackled the complex theme of PTSD through their characters, showcasing the emotional depth and realism that comes with portraying such experiences.

In Christian Bonke‘s film, Hercules Falling, which premiered on November 19, 2023, Salim plays Youssef, a character grappling with the aftereffects of his military service in Afghanistan and Iraq. Following a near-fatal incident at home, Youssef enrolls in a special facility to learn how to manage his anger. The film intertwines documentary and fictional elements, featuring the Danish island of Strynø, where a retreat center for veterans is run by Anne-Line Ussing and her husband, Stuart Press, who has PTSD from his time in the Australian Army.

The festival’s official synopsis highlights Salim’s performance as one of “brutal honesty and frank authenticity,” promising a film that is both meticulously researched and timely. Salim emphasized the unique aspect of Hercules Falling, stating, “The main difference is that we use real veterans, and Youssef’s story is a combination of their stories.” He explained that the film’s script blends genuine experiences, which allows for a deeper connection with the audience.

Salim elaborated on the impact of working alongside real veterans, saying, “When you succeed in having real people being themselves in an environment where they feel comfortable, you can tell the story through them.” He expressed that this approach creates a more profound experience for viewers.

Trine Dyrholm also addressed her character in the new series The Danish Woman, where she plays Ditte Jensen, a retired member of the Danish Secret Service attempting to lead a quiet life in Reykjavik, Iceland. Dyrholm described her character as “very brutal,” shaped by her past experiences as an elite soldier. She noted that Ditte, who has participated in various wars involving Denmark, struggles with PTSD and faces flashbacks throughout the series.

“The director always says, if you mix Napoleon, Pippi Longstocking, and Rambo, you have The Danish Woman,” Dyrholm remarked, capturing the character’s complexity. Her preparation for the role involved extensive research and immersing herself in Ditte’s viewpoint, which she described as “a very special position.”

Salim, reflecting on his own background, shared, “I’m a product of war myself. My parents ran away from Iraq when I was one year old.” He expressed familiarity with PTSD, noting that the film speaks to broader themes of human struggle and resilience. “None of us are foreign to being hurt in life,” he said, pointing out that the film illustrates the challenges faced by veterans who feel they have failed to live up to their own expectations.

During the festival, Salim expressed pride in Hercules Falling and its reception, stating, “This movie has been a huge, huge success on a personal level.” He acknowledged the challenge of attracting audiences to a film focused on mental health and struggles but remained hopeful about its impact. “We’ve already had a lot of veteran viewings, and the heartfelt messages I’ve received from people who feel seen are very touching,” he said.

Both actors conveyed the importance of telling these stories, emphasizing that the audience should approach the films with an open mind. Salim highlighted the urgency of recognizing the ongoing struggles faced by veterans, stating that the film aims to shed light on their experiences and encourage understanding.

As Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival continues to spotlight important narratives, both Salim and Dyrholm’s projects contribute significantly to the conversation surrounding mental health and the realities of life after war.