The harm caused when we are not careful about what we believe and convey to others
The versatile Mads Mikkelsen gives another compelling performance as a man wrongly accused of molesting a child. The hysterical reactions of his colleagues and friends heightens the sadness of this very real problem in our world. The ending leaves one with questions about how each of us might feel as accused and possibly as accuser. The making of the movie, alternate ending and outtakes are helpful in understanding the dynamic that played out--recommend watching after the film. I appreciate Thomas Vinterberg delving into this subject and will look for other films of his. This film is in Danish with subtitles, not difficult to follow.
Mikkelson is riveting in this role as a primary school teacher. To say that friendships can be tenuous is an understatement, as this film depicts. Explosive rumors can be deadly to reputation, livelihood, and life itself.
Story, directing, and acting are all first rate. This isn't a feel-good movie. It's a reminder not to rush to judgment.
The title was wildly overblown for what the story was.
There was too little insight given into why the child told the "fib" about the protagonist. There was also too little justification for the school principal's and neighbors' turning on him so quickly and confidently without even questioning the man's good reputation or the veracity of the child's story.
It was simply not a particularly good movie and made the Danes of the village look backward.