War films can be emotional, brutal, and unforgettable. The best ones leave a lasting impression, especially when they’re based on real people and true events. And when an actor like Mads Mikkelsen is involved, there’s a good chance what you’re watching will be worth your time.
One Danish film has now been described by fans as “the best war drama of the 21st century”, and even called the “real version of Inglourious Basterds”. Released in 2008, Flame & Citron is a gripping historical drama based on the true story of two Danish resistance fighters during World War 2.
Set in Nazi-occupied Denmark in 1944, it follows the lives of Flammen and Citronen, nicknamed for their codenames, who are tasked with assassinating Nazi collaborators and sympathisers in Copenhagen.
As their missions grow more complex, both men begin to question who they’re working for, and what the real cost of their actions might be.
The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the emotional toll of war, refusing to paint its heroes in simple black and white terms.
Starring Thure Lindhardt and Mikkelsen, the film was praised for its intense performances, cinematography, and powerful storytelling.
It became Denmark’s most-watched film of the year and remains one of its most expensive film productions to date.
Viewers and critics have continued to praise the film more than 15 years on. One reviewer said: “Top five of all time. It’s the real version of Inglourious Basterds and the best war drama of the 21st century.”
Another wrote: “Best of the resistance movies I have come to see, standing far above Army of Crime, Winter in Wartime, Soldier of Orange, or Defiance.
“It is brilliantly scripted, the acting is great, it looks and feels real and in the time, and has great action moments.”
A third added: “One of the finest films about resistance and the sorrow of war from any country. The acting is superb, the writing is magnificent and the cinematography is gorgeous. A favourite.”
Some fans compared it directly to Tarantino’s famous World War 2 thriller, calling it: “Inglourious Basterds meets Defiance.”
Another said: “Unbelievable film! Watched it with no expectations and only a rough idea of what the plot was, but I was blown away! Fantastic in nearly every aspect.”
Both films involve resistance fighters operating behind enemy lines, targeting Nazis, and risking their lives in high-stakes missions.
But while Inglourious Basterds is a fictional revenge fantasy full of dark humour and stylised violence, Flame & Citron is grounded in real events, delivering a more serious, emotionally complex story.
It’s a powerful and thought-provoking look at the cost of war, and one that many believe deserves far more attention.
Flame & Citron is available to watch on Apple TV.