The Good Traitor (2020)

How One Danish Diplomat Defied Nazi Occupation

Denmark's role in World War II takes center stage in Christina Rosendahl's gripping 2020 political drama The Good Traitor (Danish: "Vores mand i Amerika"). This true story follows Henrik Kauffmann, Denmark's ambassador to the United States, who made the extraordinary choice to defy his own government during Nazi occupation, ultimately reshaping his nation's destiny.

• Unlike typical political thrillers focused on male-dominated negotiations, this film balances diplomatic intrigue with authentic family dynamics.

• The narrative seamlessly weaves together international politics with intimate domestic scenes, showing how global decisions impact everyday family life.

• Director Christina Rosendahl brings a fresh perspective to the World War II genre by emphasizing both personal and political dimensions of resistance.

A Different Kind of World War II Story

The Power Behind the Ambassador

• Charlotte Kauffmann, Henrik's wife, proves instrumental to their diplomatic mission through her close relationship with President Franklin Roosevelt.

• The film reveals how Charlotte's social connections enabled crucial behind-the-scenes negotiations while Denmark's government yielded to German pressure.

• Their partnership demonstrates how diplomatic success often relies on both official channels and informal relationships

Family, Politics, and Sacrifice

• The story portrays the Kauffmann family navigating the complexities of political resistance while maintaining their personal relationships.

• Children's playtime scenes, including drawing countries on the ground, inspire key strategic insights about Greenland's potential role.

• The film explores the tension between Henrik and Charlotte's sister Zilla, adding emotional depth without overshadowing the main narrative

• Kauffmann negotiates a controversial agreement allowing U.S. military bases in Greenland, despite lacking official authorization.

• Local Greenland officials support the decision while the Danish government in Copenhagen declares it void.

• The ambassador faces charges of high treason but maintains that Nazi-occupied Denmark cannot represent its own interests.

• This strategic move proved crucial for Allied success in the North Atlantic.

The Greenland Gambit

• Kauffmann's resistance helps counter Denmark's international reputation for being "cowardly" during German occupation.

• Danish citizens ultimately celebrate Kauffmann and colleague Povl Bang-Jensen for their courageous stance against Nazi influence.

• The film demonstrates how individual acts of resistance can influence both national policy and international relations.

• Their actions help secure Denmark's position in the post-war international community.

Legacy and Impact

• Personal relationships and family dynamics receive equal attention alongside political maneuvering.

• The film explores the emotional cost of choosing between loyalty to government and personal principles.

• Subtle character developments and interpersonal tensions add depth to the historical narrative.

• Domestic scenes provide crucial context for understanding the human impact of political decisions.

More Than Just Politics

An Unexpected Ending

• The film concludes with historically accurate events involving the Kauffmann couple rather than a Hollywood-style resolution.

• The ending emphasizes the personal cost of political resistance.

• The conclusion connects individual sacrifice to broader historical outcomes.

• The film maintains historical accuracy while delivering a dramatic impact.

The film serves as both a compelling drama and an important historical document, reminding us that resistance to tyranny often comes at a personal price. Through masterful storytelling and balanced perspectives, it brings to life a crucial moment in Danish history that resonates with contemporary audiences.