A dead man's work, a living man's guilt, and a secret that buries them both.
Erik Menkel is released after six years, convicted of the murder of Viktor Smith. He is sought out by an old college friend of Smith's, who wants Menkel to finish Smith's work. At the same time, Menkel knew a young woman who is looking for him. Jerle lets Erik Menkel disappear so that no one knows Menkel is still alive. Barbara discovers that Menkel is living with Jerle and seeks him out. Jerle has a terrible secret.
Acting
Ib Schønberg's haunted minimalism—says everything with posture.
Cinematography
Post-war Copenhagen as character: rubble, fog, no escape.
Director
Holger Gabrielsen
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Rare Danish noir shot in actual 1947 Copenhagen ruins, capturing a nation processing collaboration and survival.
The title 'Mani' (mania/madness) refers not to a character but to the obsessive logic of post-war reconciliation—everyone here is slightly unhinged by history.
DK
