ikanboy Review of Herrens veje

Herrens veje (2017–2018)

Thought provoking study of a narcissistic Priest and family dysfunction

[9/10 · 14 June 2019]

While the focus seems to be on religion the real underlying plot is about family dysfunction engineered by an ego maniacal control freak played incredibly by Lars Mikkelsen. Two grown sons, one a priest, the other an immoral ne'er do well struggle under the grip of a father (Lars) determined to continue the family line of priesthood holders in Protestant Denmark. The father preaches love and understanding to his church but practices adultery and hypocrisy in the home. Everybody's on to him, but cowed by his powerful authority and rages. The sons are controlled by guilt and shame at their own actions, and the wife vascilates between bouts of freedom and loyalty. We watch the sons grow and transform in very different ways but both unable to escape their consciences. It's compelling stuff and rarely do human foibles get to be displayed so honestly. We may not find these people endearing because we can relate to them as fellow travelers in the world of pain and suffering.