A Fortunate Man

Ambitious engineer battles between love and career

Watch on Netflix
About A Fortunate Man

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 2h 47m

Cast
Esben Smed, Katrine Rosenthal, Benjamin Kitter, Julie Christiansen, Tommy Kenter, Tammi Øst, Rasmus Bjerg, Ole Lemmeke, Sarah Viktoria Bjerregaard, Anders Hove, Jens Albinus

About A Fortunate Man

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About

A Fortunate Man is a 2018 TV show that falls under the Dramas based on classic literature genre. It is based on the 1878 novel "Lykke-Per" by Danish author Henrik Pontoppidan. The show follows the life of a young man named Per Sidenius as he navigates through various personal and professional struggles in late 19th-century Denmark.

The story begins with Per leaving his religious family in the Danish countryside to pursue his dreams as an engineer in Copenhagen. He is determined to rise above his humble beginnings and create a better life for himself. Along the way, he faces challenges that test his values, including romantic entanglements, a volatile family dynamic, and ethical dilemmas.

Making / Production

A Fortunate Man was directed by acclaimed Danish director Bille August and produced by Lars Kjeldgaard at Nordisk Film. The TV show was filmed on location in Denmark, capturing the beautiful landscapes that serve as a backdrop to Per's journey. The production team worked meticulously to recreate the late 19th-century setting, ensuring that every detail, from costumes to set design, was authentic to the time period.

Actors

  • Jens Sætter-Lassen as Per Sidenius: He portrays the ambitious and idealistic Per Sidenius, whose relentless pursuit of success and happiness drives the story.
  • Jakob Oftebro as Ivan Salomon: He plays Per's close friend and confidant, who provides support and guidance throughout his journey.
  • Katrine Greis-Rosenthal as Jakobe Salomon: She portrays Ivan's sister and Per's romantic interest, adding a complex dynamic to their relationships.
  • Rasmus Bjerg as Sidenius: He plays Per's father, a strict and deeply religious man who struggles to accept Per's choices.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The TV show is a faithful adaptation of Henrik Pontoppidan's novel "Lykke-Per", which is considered a classic of Danish literature.
  • A Fortunate Man received critical acclaim for its meticulous attention to detail in recreating the historical setting and its compelling storytelling.
  • Lead actor Jens Sætter-Lassen underwent extensive research to accurately portray Per Sidenius's journey and brings depth to the character.

Awards

A Fortunate Man has received several awards and nominations, including:

  • Winner of the Best Actress Award at the Danish Film Academy Awards.
  • Nominated for Best TV Drama at the Copenhagen TV Festival.
  • Nominated for Best Cinematography at the European Film Awards.

Quotes

  • "Sometimes you have to leave everything behind to find yourself." - Per Sidenius
  • "Success is only worth it if you stay true to yourself." - Ivan Salomon
  • "Love is a force that can both build and destroy." - Jakobe Salomon

Music / Soundtrack

  • The TV show features a captivating soundtrack composed by Hans Mathisen, which blends classical and contemporary elements to reflect the emotional journey of the characters.
  • The theme song, "Fortunate Journey," captures the spirit of the show with its dynamic orchestration and haunting melodies.