Danish Twists

The small country of Denmark has sent a boatload of great films to the Cleveland International Film Festival. Headhunter is good, but it is not the usual Danish knockout.

A former hotshot reporter named Martin Vinge (who is in every scene) is now a big-time headhunter. Hired by the owner of Denmark’s largest company, Vinge must find the firm’s new leader — as long as it’s not be the son of the retiring owner.

But the son will not be passed over without a fight. Let the corporate intrigue begin.

There are more twists than a Chubby Checker reunion. Several of the twists don’t quite ring true: a sick son that can only be treated by a special doctor, a female newspaper reporter sidekick who seems to have more power than Lois Lane, and Vinge’s excellent relationship with his ex-wife (this always strains credibility).

Still, I’m a sucker for corporate double and triple crossing. Headhunter looks great and is beautifully acted. The film relies on suspense with a minimum of violence and romance. Denmark looks great. Despite a few potholes in the plot, headhunter is worth the ride. — Bob Carson

Thu., March 25, 1:50 p.m.; Sat., March 27, 9:40 p.m.; Sun., March 28, 1:25 p.m. View the trailer here.