THE HUNT (JAGTEN)

Recovering from a divorce, kindergarten teacher Lucas (Mads Mikkelsen in an exceptional performance) lives in a close-knit Danish town with a group of chummy friends. His gradual recovery is dismantled when a simple lie shatters his reputation and slowly turns the town against him. As the witch-hunt intensifies, Lucas is forced to fight for his name and dignity.

Danish director Thomas Vinterburg returns to the issue of child abuse explored in his acclaimed film The Celebration (Festen). His slightly minimalist approach draws you into each scene, with beautiful natural lighting and the occasional shaky camera.

With great visuals, a tense plot and excellent performances, The Hunt is a brilliant and horrifying study into group dynamics and the importance of reputation. (FM)

****1/2