The Hunt

The film continually highlights how easily the seemingly civilised, rational inhabitants of the small town lose their moral bearings - and how irrational their behaviour is.

The acting on all fronts is outstanding, with Mikkelsen holding the centre magnificently as the wronged teacher, his life contaminated by the slow-acting poison of rumour.

The Hunt's inexorability feels derived more from thematic or ideological concerns than any organic necessity.

“The Hunt” can be difficult to watch. It’s confrontational and unflinching. Yet its thought-provoking questions are soaked in realism and relevance.