Daniel

Synopsis

"Daniel" by Niels Arden Oplev is based on Puk Damgård's bestseller "Ser du månen, Daniel," which tells the true story of one of the most spectacular kidnappings of our time. The protagonist is the young Danish freelance photographer Daniel Rye, who was held captive for 398 days by the terrorist organization Islamic State in Syria. One of the other captives was the American journalist James Foley, who was killed in front of the eyes of the world.

The film follows daily life in captivity and Daniel Rye's increasingly desperate family back in Denmark. The film offers a unique insight into how people survive torture, form friendships, and maintain hope under the most extreme and inhumane conditions. It also shows how Daniel Rye's parents cope with the fear of never seeing their son alive again and how they try to negotiate with the Islamic State.

Daniel Rye is the only hostage who managed to escape ISIS captivity with his life.

Production Facts

Niels Arden Oplev has previously directed "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo". Anders Thomas Jensen wrote the script and has previously written scripts for Susanne Bier's Oscar-winning "Hämnden" (which was co-produced with Film i Väst).

The film is produced by Signe Leick Jensen, Toolbox Film, in co-production with Film i Väst.