The Queen's New Year Address

Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale is told here as a digital theater piece. The visual point of departure is fashioned by découpages created by Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, who is also the narrator. The découpages serve to establish the mood around the story of the children, Kaj and Gerda. They consist of a countless number of clippings, which are subsequently subjected to the processes of computer animation and mixed with graphics, live actors and music into an unique fairy tale universe.

When a self-appointed expert on love tries to teach a timid prince the art of seduction, the plan backfires, leading to scandal — and unexpected romance.

It marks the beginning of a new era in Denmark’s monarchy when Frederik X becomes king on January 14, 2024. On that day, the spotlight will also turn to him: Christian, the new Crown Prince. More duties, more public appearances, and more responsibility now await the royal, who has just come of age. Not much is known about Christian and his siblings—Isabella, Vincent, and Josephine—who are now also stepping more into the spotlight. Although they live in the heart of Copenhagen and attend public schools, there are no photos of them outside of official appearances. The Danes respect the privacy of their royal family and the princes’ and princesses’ right to a childhood. So far, Denmark’s young royal children have grown up without media pressure and with plenty of family warmth, able to develop freely and confidently in a protected environment.

Danish documentary about the relationship between Queen Magrethe II and the prime ministers.