Pelle the Conqueror (1987)

VHS CASE/ SIDE

Length of film:  157 Minutes (DVD Cut: 150 Minutes)

Rated: 15

Genre: Drama

Director: Bille August

Starring: Pelle Hvenegaard, Max von Sydow, Erik Paaske, Björn Granath, Astrid Villaume, Axel Strøbye

IMDB Rank: 7.8 /10

Part 1 Time:  N/A Minutes (DVD Cut: 88 Minutes)

Part 2 Time:  N/A Minutes (DVD Cut: 62 Minutes)

Where does the first part end? Erik (Björn Granath) attacks the landowner Mr. Kongstrup (Axel Strøbye)

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “You heard me! Put him in the cellar! The rest of you get back to work,” Mr. Kongstrup shouts.

First line of dialogue on the second part: Pelle (Pelle Hvenegaard) runs along the shore line, “Come inside to get warm,” states Mrs. Olsen (Karen Wegener).

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Somewhat, Erik attempts to lead a revolt against Mr. Kongstrup, but is unsuccessful. After witnessing the failed revolt, Pelle and Lasse (Max von Sydow) realize it is time to think about leaving the farm, but how will they do it?

Which part is better? The film documents the struggles felt by emigrants during the 1850s. With limited opportunities, both Lasse and Pelle are forced to toil on a large farm facing mistreatment and a low standard of living. As the film progresses, Pelle obtains life skills but is still faced with discrimination, as he is viewed as a foreigner. Both parts of the film are well done, making it hard to determine the superior act. A slight edge goes to part one, as the film accurately depicts the hardships faced by emigrants during the mid 19th century.

Academy Awards: 1989- Best Foreign Language Film (Winner), Best Leading Actor (Nominated- Max von Sydow)

Other Awards: 1988 Cannes Film Festival- Palme d’ Or (Winner); 1989 Golden Globes- Best Foreign Language Film (Winner); 1990 BAFTA- Best Film not in the English Language (Nominated)