The Guilty

One call can change everything — a race against time.

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Synopsis

The Guilty (Den skyldige) is a tense Danish thriller that unfolds entirely within an emergency dispatch call center, starring Jakob Cedergren as Asger Holm, a police officer relegated to desk duty. When he receives a distress call from a woman who has been abducted, Asger uses his skills and instincts to try and save her, relying solely on his voice and quick thinking. The film expertly builds suspense through its minimalist setting and immersive sound design, delivering a gripping narrative that explores themes of responsibility, desperation, and moral dilemma. Asger's race against time highlights the pressure faced by those who operate behind the scenes in emergency services, making it a captivating cinematic experience without ever leaving the confines of the call center.

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Reviews

Critically acclaimed, The Guilty has garnered widespread praise for its innovative approach and gripping storytelling. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an impressive 98% approval rating, with critics highlighting its taut script and Jakob Cedergren’s compelling performance. The site’s consensus describes it as a “masterclass in suspense, transforming a single-room setting into a thrilling cinematic experience.” IMDb rates the movie 7.5/10, reflecting a strong audience appreciation for the film's originality and emotional depth. Metacritic assigns it a score of 83/100, signaling widespread acclaim, with reviewers applauding director Gustav Möller’s ability to maintain tension using minimalistic cinematography and sound. Some critiques point out that the film’s limited physical action might test the patience of viewers expecting more dynamic visuals. However, most agree that its intense focus on character psychology and storytelling makes The Guilty a striking example of how creativity and tight pacing can elevate a thriller. The film’s success is marked by its received nominations and awards, solidifying it as an outstanding achievement in Scandinavian cinema.