Introducing Ludvig Frøkjær Thomsen

Ludvig Frøkjær Thomsen

Up-and-coming director Ludvig was shaped by an upbringing immersed in art, literature, and classical music. Having occupied a seat in the new—land Copenhagen office as a director's assistant, he honed his craft assisting directors Tore Frandsen and Casper Balslev. His films blend meaningful storytelling with a wry, nostalgic charm and a distinctive visual voice.

When it comes to filmmaking, what drives you?

It’s the investigation that is always the most exciting. For me, filmmaking is a tool to enter an arena and stay there long enough to understand its behaviour, people, and contradictions.

From there, I look for truth, tragedy, and humour. Often all at once. Moments where characters reveal more than they intend to, when a small, almost insignificant detail ends up telling the real story. Film is a way for me to process things I don’t fully understand, and to invite the audience into that uncertainty rather than resolve it for them.

How would you describe your style and approach?

I guess my approach will always be rooted in a form of observation, and then how characters respond to that observation. I often want to do too many things at the same time, so restriction is a huge part of the process.

I’m very interested in contrast. Polished worlds with odd, fragile people, or serious setups that collapse into something absurd. Process-wise, I care deeply about preparation, but I also leave space for things to break or surprise us on set.

You’ve got an undeniable knack for comedic timing - what are some of your influences?

Thank you! Comedy, for me, is necessary to deal with reality. Without comedy, we’re doomed. It’s devastating when people take themselves too seriously. Except neurosurgeons - they are off the hook.

I’m generally drawn to comedy that doesn’t announce itself as comedy, but sneaks up on you to the point where you’re not sure whether to laugh or cry, and sometimes do both. Other times, it’s just straight-up nonsense or dark deadpan humour that can leave me in tears of laughter.

Peering into the looking glass of 2026, what excites you most?

I’m interested in work that has a heart. Work that makes me want to get inside it, to examine it, wrestle with it, and then elevate it. When someone walks away slightly unsettled, amused, or questioning something small about themselves or the world, that feels like success to me.

You can see more Ludvig's work over here.