Get ready to be captivated by a tale of redemption, chaos, and the human spirit—A Prayer for the Dying has just dropped its trailer, and it’s already stirring emotions ahead of its Berlin premiere. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a man burdened by war trauma and a dark past truly become the savior of an entire town? That’s the question at the heart of this gripping film, starring Johnny Flynn, John C. Reilly, and Kristine Kujath Thorp. Premiering at Berlinale’s Perspectives—a spotlight for first-time feature directors—this Friday, the movie promises to be a powerful exploration of guilt, sacrifice, and survival.
Written and directed by Dara Van Dusen, the film is a cinematic adaptation of Stewart O’Nan’s novel, set in the tumultuous aftermath of the American Civil War. It follows Jacob Hansen (Flynn), a veteran whose dream of starting anew in Friendship, Wisconsin, shatters when a deadly epidemic and raging wildfire plunge the town into chaos. As the sheriff, undertaker, and pastor, Jacob must confront his own demons while fighting to protect his community, his family, and his soul. And this is the part most people miss: Jacob’s multifaceted roles aren’t just duties—they’re his way of atoning for past sins, a burden he carries silently. As Van Dusen explains, ‘He’s become everyone for everybody in this town, all while being a husband and father to Marta and Emilia.’
Behind the scenes, the film boasts a stellar crew, including director of photography Kate McCullough, production designer Hubert Pouille, costume designer Ján Kocman, and editor Fredrik Morheden. Produced by Dyveke Bjørkly Graver, with a robust team of co-producers—Vicky Miha, Fenia Cossovitsa, Tristan Goligher, Mimmi Spång, Kristina Börjeson, Pavel Berčík, Jana Garajová, and Zahra Waldeck—the project is a collaboration of international talent.
The production companies behind this ambitious film include Eye Eye Pictures, asterisk*, Blonde, The Bureau, Garagefilm International, and Film i Väst, with co-production support from Film Kolektiv, Mediefondet Zefyr, Banaccas, and Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT). It’s also produced in association with Anton, New Europe Film Sales, Oslo Pictures, Amarcord, UK Global Screen Fund, and Media Finance Capital.
Here’s the bold question we’re leaving you with: In a world where heroes are often flawed, does Jacob’s quest for redemption make him a savior or just another man grappling with his own humanity? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
