In the early 20th century, Karoline, desperate to make ends meet while working at a textile factory that produces military supplies, suddenly finds herself out on the streets. Pregnant with an illegitimate child, she wanders through the alleys of Copenhagen, until Dagmar, offering a glimmer of hope, extends a helping hand. With the prospect of placing the child for adoption with a wealthy family, the two grow closer. However, the reality Karoline faces is far more wretched, and the truth about Dagmar is nothing short of horrifying. The Girl with the Needle feels like a strange and brutal fairy tale. In the woods, when a girl is lost and falls under the spell of a witch, what choice does she really have? Can it even be called a ‘choice?’ Throughout the consistently grim, monochromatic atmosphere, Karoline, with her weary expression, is not a girl dreaming of transforming a frog into a prince with a kiss. The girl with the needle clings to life, refusing to let go of her attachment to it, in a desolate attempt to escape the cruel wheel of misfortune. (Karen PARK)