The quiet ones: A heist thriller that captures the essence of a turbulent era
A new cinematic gem from Denmark
TrustNordisk has recently announced significant international sales for the Danish heist action drama, “The Quiet Ones”, directed by Frederik Louis Hviid and produced by Zentropa. This gripping film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), has already garnered attention from various territories, including Spain, Poland, the former Yugoslavia, and the Baltic states. Additional deals are currently in negotiation, with pre-sales already secured for the U.S., Germany, and South Korea. The Nordic release will be managed by Nordisk Film Distribution.
A star-studded cast
The film features an impressive cast, including Gustav Giese, Amanda Collin, and Reda Kateb. Giese, known for his role in “Riders Of Justice,” portrays a frustrated boxer with a striking physical presence, complete with tattoos and a facial scar. His character is driven by a desire to provide for his wife and daughter but has yet to achieve his first significant victory in the ring. He is approached by Slimani, played by Kateb, a hardened sociopath with a history of brutal heists, to mastermind a robbery at a cash depot. Collin, known for her role in “The Promised Land,” plays a security guard at the cash handling firm, striving to do her job well amidst the chaos.
A heist set against a backdrop of financial turmoil
“The Quiet Ones” is set during the 2008 financial crisis, a time of significant economic upheaval in Europe. The film reconstructs the largest robbery ever carried out in Denmark, blending elements of fiction and thriller to create a compelling narrative. The meticulous preparation for the heist is a central theme, building tension as the characters plan their daring operation.
Real-life inspiration and meticulous research
The filmmakers went to great lengths to ensure the authenticity of the story. They consulted with one of the real-life perpetrators of the robbery, who provided invaluable insights into the life of a criminal. This collaboration began in 2020, and the filmmakers have incorporated elements of the robber’s story into the film to create a realistic portrayal of the heist.
Critical acclaim and comparisons to classic heist films
Initial reviews from Toronto have been overwhelmingly positive. One notable review described “The Quiet Ones” as “an intense powder keg of a movie that should be right up the alley of fans of ‘Heat.'” This comparison to the classic heist film highlights the intense and gripping nature of Hviid’s latest work.
A promising career for Frederik Louis Hviid
Hviid’s debut feature, the 2020 police thriller “Enforcement”, was selected for Venice’s International Critics’ Week, showcasing his talent for creating intense and engaging narratives. He also co-created and directed episodes of “Prisoner”, a highlight of the 2023 Canneseries. With “The Quiet Ones”, Hviid continues to establish himself as a director to watch in the world of cinema.
Watch the trailer
For those eager to get a glimpse of this thrilling heist drama, you can watch the trailer for The Quiet Ones.
Final thoughts
“The Quiet Ones” is a must-watch for fans of heist films and thrillers. With its compelling narrative, strong performances, and meticulous attention to detail, it promises to be a standout film in the genre. The collaboration with a real-life perpetrator adds an extra layer of authenticity, making it a fascinating exploration of crime and desperation during a time of financial crisis. As the film continues to gain international attention, it is poised to become a significant entry in the world of heist cinema.