Jamie passion and passionfruit!

A Danish film directed by Susanne Bier about a pair of brothers – one an efficient caring father and soldier whose helicopter is shot down in Afghanistan and who we beleive is dead but is in fact being subject to torture as a captive of the Afghans.  Michael is played convincingly by Ulrich Thomsen.  His brother Jannik is a layabout, in trouble with the law, a drunkard and a disappointment to his family.  His brother is always picking up the pieces.  When Michael is listed dead Jannik starts to change and gravitiates towards his sister-in-law, Connie Nielsen (solid performance), both to give and receive support.  He starts to believe in himself and a sort of romantic attraction begins.  And then Michael comes back – rather changed for his experience.  Good acting especially by the great Nikolaj Lie Kaas as Jannik who is always a joy to watch.  An intelligent script even if one or two of the events and characterisations leave a little to be desired in the line of credibility.  Nice photography and a sympathetic direction that gives us an interesting look at sibling rivalry and a reminder of the effects of war.  Overall, a well-made film with plenty to attract us.

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