Mads Mikkelsen Breaks Down His Most Iconic Characters | GQ

[@gauravkumar3146]

How elegantly Mads played Hannibal is beyond human level. There will never be another Hannibal ever like him.

[@FerroNJ4]

I very much agree. Mads is a phenomenal actor and Hannibal was a different level. 5/5

[@farhanredza]

I love him as hannibal.. So charming and charismatic..

[@cameromludwig2448]

He does a great job but Anthony Hopkins will always be Hannibal

[@thetaaaa]

​@@cameromludwig2448They're vastly different takes on the character, it feels like they were both aiming for entirely different things, they both succeeded, and it's almost unfair to try and compare them

[@TheNeonNinja]

@@cameromludwig2448 Agree, but all 3 - with Brian Cox in Manhunter, were great respectively. I loved the fact Mads got the ability in a long form format to delve into the role further than anyone else though, it was brilliant.

[@K086698]

I love how he never has to raise his voice, he just commands all the scenes he is in.

[@DrJones0801]

You must've never watched his Danish movies then.

[@mmyers6441]

@@DrJones0801 "Riders of Justice"💚

[@sar4806]

His natural suave presence is why every single one of these roles is legitimately iconic. Bond, Star Wars, Marvel, Hannibal, and a Kojima game. That hits so many different notes and audiences.

[@jamesisaphotographer]

“But you are SO WRONG!”

[@MaxPayne-wj7fb]

Facts

[@G59METH]

Mads Mikkelsen must be the most underrated actor of the past 20 years, I barely ever hear anyone talk about him and his perfomances

[@G59METH]

2 months later, I've played Death Stranding for the first time, finished it today after a month and wow, all perfomances were perfect and a really solid game that will only get better with second playthrough

[@JussaraAlmeida2912]

Not in Europe or Denmark. He is widely regarded as a great actor there.

[@distinctloafer]

​@@JussaraAlmeida2912 Great? How condesceding 😂

[@Юлия-т1е9о]

In Russia he is also very popular, I think everybody love him

[@JanisPyles]

AGREE. Amazing actor.

[@anushkasamarasinghe]

Mads' performance as Hanibal is undoubtedly his best performance. It was played with so much grace. Amazing.

[@MaMastoast]

his role in Adams Apples is prolly my favourite performance of his... I dunno how well it works if you dont understand Danish though

[@euphrosyne6855]

out of the english movies/tv-series he’s been in, for sure, but i’d say there’s a fair share of danish movies in which he played just as brilliantly, if not more so. Adams Apple, as mentioned by the comment above, being one example

[@samuelkim9195]

I never heard of Mr. Mickelson before I watched that show. But he earned a big fan after I watched it. Certainly a masterclass performance.

[@parissinclair6513]

It's great, but his performances in After the Wedding and Another Round were more complex and nuanced.

[@AryanSneed]

I personally loved him in "The Hunt", such a great movie

[@justanothermortal1373]

I think Mads has one of the most recognisable voices in cinema. Every time I hear his voice, I know it's him.

[@mikkelboisen5543]

You should check out his older brother, Lars. Lars has a very soothing voice, but can somehow still sound very menacing if the part requires it.

[@laerkeb8260]

Because of the Danish accent LOL

[@Janus-fn2uz]

Well matey, that's because of his obvious accent. Tch!

[@GoNutsDK]

Well he does speak Danglish

[@kreherkim]

because of the danish accent his english isnt that great

[@rome8180]

I'm glad they included some of his Danish films like The Hunt, Another Round, and the Pusher movies. They're fantastic. Another recent Danish movie of his I enjoyed was Riders of Justice. I wish they had included that, but I was glad to see a few non-Hollywood roles on here.

[@Cyannah117]

They should have included his TV acting as well. Unit One was an awesome show.

[@Wolf-xw2lq]

The Hunt is one of the most incredible and depressing films I've ever seen. I always recommend people check out Mads' Danish stuff, it's all amazing.

[@Yabois_]

HVAD MED BLINKENDE LYGTER?!

[@RrvigGames]

@@Yabois_Eller min kære broder Sven Sved

[@sinebachrenleff847]

I totally agree with you. His performance in Riders of Justice was amazing!

[@spb78art]

The fact that Death Stranding is featured in one of these videos just speaks to how far gaming has come. Really proud of Kojima and the team

[@snakeplisskin8151]

Exactly what I was thinking. All thanks to Kojimas love of movies/games.

[@dormghost]

A great cross-over between 2 entertainment mediums! I cant wait for his future projects! This is what would happen when a studio focuses on producing artworks rather than just churning another money grabbers.

[@bigtibseh]

The whole reason I'm on this video is because of death stranding lol

[@captgeech]

@@bigtibseh same honestly. he was incredible in that game.

[@Kackpuh]

Yeah, shame that the game was so bad.

[@danieljdtaylor]

His performance in Hannibal was the best acting performance I’ve ever seen, only rivalled by Hugh Dancy’s corresponding performance in the show. Brilliant stuff.

[@micksmix4489]

He outshines Hugh Dancy (who I love) in their scenes. Throughout the show he is only rivaled by Gillian Anderson’s portrayal of Bedelia.

[@miguelflores5432]

In all honesty, that show felt like a piece of beautiful art.

[@giulyspets]

@@micksmix4489 hugh grant lmao

[@leon_redgrave]

​@@miguelflores5432it is Thats why

[@Terminxman]

@@miguelflores5432 The first two seasons were great, I greatly disagree about Hugh Dancy's acting

[@amandasnider2644]

He was masterful as Hannibal. It felt like a priveledge to watch. It legitimately felt like watching art and watching an acting masterclass. Both he and Hugh. I pay such attention to their such elegant subtlety. The smallest twitch of an eyebrow or a slight head tilt...small things that speak volumes.

[@SnidgetAsphodel]

The fact the show, Mads AND Hugh never won an Emmy is almost an insult.

[@Wraith1959]

I would add Gillian Anderson's performance as Bedelia de Maurier as well. All three were performing at an incredible level throughout.

[@doughyjoey_8742]

Rewatch the scene where Will is in hospital. In particular, the time Hannibal brings Will in a really lovely homemade Black Chicken broth to regain his strength. Hanninal casually and elegantly explains the dish. And Will just bluntly replies, "You made me chicken soup"! Hanninal snaps his head back and subtlety gives Will the greatest look of disdian ever. Its so great 😂❤ I miss this show😢

[@raymondsims7042]

@@SnidgetAsphodelit just shows that the stupid Emmys don’t matter. Masterpiece like Hannibal’s, bcs, the wire, the boys etc… don’t have those awards it’s ridiculous

[@tristramshandy4063]

Hannibal was one of the best series I've watched and his performance...brilliant. Actually the whole cast was perfect. There was no dead weight on that cast.

[@hollandscottthomas]

I'm still mad we never got s04 covering Silence of the Lambs :( That show was such a high watermark for TV drama.

[@NaruSasuLemon]

I feel will was an awful actor, just didn’t warm up to him… everyone else was ace though

[@Gottsnus]

​@NaruSasuLemon funny, I thought Will was ok. Lawrence Fishburne however, frequently seemed out of his depth

[@bartolomeumalfeitor]

I like your pfp

[@parissinclair6513]

@@Gottsnus Haha I liked Hugh Dancy and loved Lawrence Fishburne, but Kacey Rohl's (Abigail Hobbs) performance fell short for me. I was very aware that it was "acting" as opposed to me getting lost in the story. I later saw her in a small role on an episode of iZombie, and she acted/played that character literally the exact same way as she did Abigail Hobbs.

[@Luke101]

Mads NEVER turns in a dull performance. He’s seriously one of the best actors working today and one of the best villain actors of all time

[@CYB3R2K]

He was very forgettable in Doc Strange dude

[@betosanchez6929]

​@@CYB3R2K I blame the script, not the actor. He was a dull character.

[@7lovessomemusic]

Agree with this

[@blackwomangamer2637]

@@CYB3R2K Everything Marvel is forgettable junk, don't blame the actor

[@mysticsaxophone4181]

@@CYB3R2K Yeah Marvel films are not something you should be tuning into to find interesting cinema anyway

[@KidFresh71]

Personification of gravitas. Dude never has to over-act, chew the scenery, or be unnecessarily theatrical. Just completely owns every character he embodies and dominates every scene he's in.

[@NeillyVille]

He is amazing in Hannibal. The perfect Hannibal for me

[@LuisSierra42]

True

[@K086698]

I think that’s his most mesmerizing role, he really got to shine

[@petsmart1000]

Omg he was phenomenal in Hannibal!! ❤

[@zer0953]

literally one of those moments when all stars align, just a perfect performance

[@BrandonWestfall]

I never thought anyone could compete with Anthony Hopkins but Mads is insane.

[@Dzokhar]

Anyone who loves the Hopkins version of Hannibal should definitely see the Mikkelsen version. I genuinely used to think Hopkins couldn't ever be beaten and now Hannibal is my all-time favorite TV series.

[@sassysledgehammer]

I totally agree. Big horror fan and Mads rocked my whole world!!!

[@El-Mac795]

If you read the novels, hannibal is more like mads version then Hopkins.

[@janeryder43]

YES. I will never forget the final episode ever

[@carlyg1969]

I was so late to watch it , But I not long finished it And omg his performance as Hannibal was amazing

[@evab521]

Yessss best tv show everee

[@BIOSHOCKFOXX]

The way he described Lector, how he views the world, is literally the same way I have been talking about this show whenever I get the chance to talk about it. That the show basically is violent, yet elegant, it's gory, yet beautiful.

[@summerskyegardens]

LOVED Hannibal! So sad they canceled the show when they did. Mads learned all the professional chef skills so he could do all the kitchen scenes on his own and make it look believable.

[@tempestates13]

Watching those scenes, I was like "I would love to have him cook a meal for me"

[@christianstark2381]

I'm sure he'd love to have you for dinner.

[@tempestates13]

@@christianstark2381 I'd rather eat the dinner and not BE dinner

[@mniakan754]

@@tempestates13 unfortunately you are the meal

[@GiacomoJimmi]

They wanted to do another season with the Clarice Starling/Jame Gumb storyline, but the studio couldn’t get the rights to “Silence of the Lambs”.

[@alexlazzerly3677]

He's been in so many iconic properties like Bond, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and Marvel, but I believe his best performance is in Another Round. Absolutely incredible, and should have been nominated for an Oscar.

[@61raindrops]

For me, it was the danish movie “the hunt”. After watching all the villain roles, who knew he could play a nice kindergarten teacher so well!

[@alexlazzerly3677]

@@61raindropsI would say that’s my second favorite performance of his. All of his Danish roles are the best.

[@localkauf]

​@@61raindropsI was gonna reply with the exact same thing. For those who know, the Hunt is easily his best performance (and imo his best film)

[@charley15z]

@@localkaufI prefer Another Round but they’re both excellent films.

[@LeviBoldock]

All his films with Anders Thomas Jensen are incredible, too - The Green Butchers, Riders of Justice, Flickering Lights, Adam’s Apples, Men & Chicken.

[@duygud.2132]

I first met Mads in August 2022, when he played Grindelwald in Fantastic Beasts. I watched all the productions he played in the intervening year. I have never seen such a bright and high aura before. In the scenes where he plays with Hugh Dancy in Hannibal, his light reaches the highest level. His chemistry with Jude Law was also incredible.

[@kimklarskovpedersen2576]

You should watch Flickering lights.. Danish movie.. If you can cope with the subtitles, then you can thank me later ;p

[@Sleepyphoen1x]

Litery i got the same story😂

[@mollyredsull1975]

What was it like to meet him?

[@andrewmilhoan3568]

He is just a fascinating guy, and brings 110% to every role. I LOVED him in Casino Royale and he is THE definitive version of Hannibal to me. Also loved him as Cliff in Death Stranding.

[@mel1one]

Exactly my thoughts!! 💯 Le Chiffre forever! 🖤 And these 3 characters you named are my favorites of him as well :D

[@nanina2034]

He is charismatic and intelligent this is what makes him fascinating.

[@RukkmansWorld]

It takes a LOT to make u forget anthony hopkins... he does it with it ease... hannibal is HIM!!!

[@Pixeltwist22]

He was perfect as Cliff

[@heatherstanfield1007]

Eh, I still think Anthony Hoppkins is king of that role...but I love Mads Mikkelsen he crushes every role he is in and plays incredible baddies he made an incredible new age Hannibal, but the original Hannibal and truest has been immortalised in a tattoo on myself 🤣and idk if Mad's can top it. He gave a really sinister and elegant feel to the role though, he played it very well.

[@KrazzeeKane]

I absolutely love how he isn't seemingly tired and even embarassed by some of his popular or early roles. Too many actors nowadays seem to almost hate their own popular characters due to being typecast or something. Whereas Mads realizes that if you're popular, it's because people like you

[@nicolasl]

Mads' franchise resumé is crazy impressive. With him also having done a series, video game and music video performance, it really seems like he just wants to expand and test himself. Love that he still makes Danish movies even with all his hollywood success

[@LordCroker]

He's just one of those actors that everybody loves. I'll go see a film just because he's in it. Always such a pleasure to watch

[@sohell1992]

Mads Mikkelsen as Hannibal Lecter is some of the finest acting I have ever seen.

[@georgecostantin8787]

Yes. They say they intentionally created a new Hanibal because Antony Hopkins was not beatable:) I'm not sure which one was closest to the source material but they are totally different guys, while Antony is a straight out psychopath, Mads version is so refined. It's funny what great actors can do with the same character, I mean it's not funny, it's art:)

[@bertvsrob]

hands down the best incarnation of lecter

[@MIN-holic30]

What a unique and perfect description he gave to Hannibal's character.. I agree that Hannibal is like a fallen angel and while will has no control of empathy Hannibal's in full control.. I love the explanation of characters..

[@HMF47]

What makes Le Chiffre arguably the best Bond villain is that, for all the torment he puts Bond through, he's motivated by his own fear. Incredibly difficult balance and nuance to pull off.

[@bobbyologun1517]

100% agree. when he said, "the codes...please" he was *so* scared, desperate

[@gintonicx6]

Best new Bond villain for sure

[@Luke101]

“I’ll get the money…”

[@joshuacollins9346]

The best Bond villain since Sean Bean in Goldeneye (in my opinion).

[@peterpalmer-uz3zx]

Hands down He's the best.

[@kings4300]

He's the master of subtle performance. He can deliver absolutely every emotion with one look, or one twich of an eyebrow. One of the most skilled actors!

[@moodyville]

His role as Hannibal is one of the best performances I've ever seen. His use of subtle movement and expressions conveyed a thousand meanings and when he did speak, you could interpret it in a million ways. So composed and elegant

[@anirev9745]

He's one of those actors that always feel like a main character regardless of the role he's playing. He takes over any scene he's in. I haven't watched Hannibal for a long time but still, the fact that I cannot remember even a single actor in that series other than Mad is a perfect representation of how he just takes over the whole space he's in. Not to mention that with the kind of predecessor he had in that role, it's even a miracle that he managed to play his own tone and still produce such a great Hannibal!

[@spookylittlebat]

There is no Hannibal without Will 😧

[@yevgeniyaleshchenko849]

You just insulted all actors in Hannibal. How can you diss Hugh and Gillian Anderson? Besides, Hannibal IS the main character of Hannibal (duh), so of course he is and should be in the center of audience's attention...

[@raymondsims7042]

@@yevgeniyaleshchenko849you kind of disrespected Lawrence fishbourne by not mentioning him

[@kailovi]

I'd love to see Mads Mikkelsen and Viggo Mortensen in a film together playing the leads. It could be about brothers, enemies, lovers, colleagues, whatever. They're so wonderful both as actors and as people, downtoearth and genuine.

[@CaptainPupu]

OMG yes make this happen.

[@vazhatavberidze5040]

Beat me to it! Similar vibes

[@WitnessThis1000]

Lovers? What do you mean?

[@kailovi]

@@WitnessThis1000 I just listed different dynamics they could play out on the silverscreen. Viggo is 7years older than Mads, they both speak Danish and are two handsome devils, they could pass for brothers on screen, but just as easily play lovers, colleagues, enemies etc. It's called acting, and I'd really just want to see them create movie magic together as they're both phenomenal in their craft. Don't really care about the genre, though an intimate smaller indie piece would really give them room to flex those acting muscles.

[@CaptainPupu]

@@WitnessThis1000 degeneracy

[@cpehansen21]

Mads talking about Hannibal is fascinating. His choice to substitute something of his own to achieve the same emotion that Hannibal does instead of going down the "dark alley" just highlights the needless drama of a lot of character actors

[@CountessOfOle]

It also explains how he can play such dark and twisted characters so well without losing the sweet and joyful energy he has in real life.

[@jeremiahgabriel5709]

It also seems like a skill one either has naturally or is intentionally taught, and if not...one can go down a dark road. So perhaps it's a skill that should be more widely taught.

[@lpgiu]

Mads has this ability to inject heart and soul in all of his characters, no matter if they're evil, chaotic or just normal people trying to deal with life. It's impossible not to love them. It always fascinates me how lovingly he speaks of each of them. He's a very special human with a free spirit.

[@Fricroller]

I love how you said this

[@qingyu]

"...my iconic characters, some people tell me." omg that smile. Mads simply IS iconic and i will literally watch anything he is in.

[@ivan199898]

Loved his small role in Rogue One. His love for his daughter was truly felt.

[@eliskakordulova]

Binged Hannibal a month ago, for about 8th time since 2015. It's one of a few shows that can make me very emotional. Mad's acting in S2 and S3 finales I'll never forget. 👏

[@AprilGabrielle]

Last time I binged I cried for half an hour at the finale. I don't ever want to not cry at the finale.

[@jstandsforjulie]

I was a complete wreck after watching Jagten/The Hunt. Mads' performance in that movie was phenomenal. He always brings so much passion and emotion into his characters. He is one of a kind!

[@thaisgomes3637]

An excellent movie!!

[@pleaserunmeoverwithasubaru6761]

one of my favorite movies for sure

[@melissaurrecha9281]

this men is so beautiful and talented, I honestly watch any movie just to see him act

[@cuecadelacut]

"Did you just smell me" still gets me

[@MikeyMike-fb5hx]

I think Jeff Hornacek and Madds are the same person.

[@LBCGremlin]

Probably the most versatile Actor today. Think about how many large and small films he has been in? You always remember if he was in it because he knocks it out of the park. Bravo to his amazing filmography and always excited to see what he does next.

[@cuchelo1]

Honestly I feel like all of his roles are iconic, even if the project isn't well-known. He's just absolutely incredible.

[@Soggywafflecakes]

He could totally play a badass dracula

[@LBCGremlin]

@@Soggywafflecakes that’s actually super interesting casting.

[@LBCGremlin]

@@cuchelo1 I agree. Especially his foreign films. You get why he is cast in so many big films

[@Fabi_87]

Mads is so humble and down to earth like most Scandinavians. Remember growing up watching him in the Pusher movies nice too see that Hollywood hasnt changed him😊

[@Outistichna]

-"Hannibal" is one of the most beautiful things I have ever watched in my life! (still pissed at them for ending it so abruptly!) -SO glad they mentioned "Valhalla rising", massively underrated & one of my favourite films; -Nobody asked me, but I would've given him an Oscar or two for that heartbreaking portrayal in "Jagten/The hunt"!

[@elainethomas9737]

Me to still made about the cancelation of Hannibal 😡

[@Outistichna]

@@elainethomas9737 Watched some crew interview a few months back and they all said they'd do it in a heartbeat! Someone just doesn't want us to enjoy beautiful things...

[@cineturon]

His performance in The Hunt should’ve gotten him every award possible , it was so amazing…

[@XcitedBenle]

Not to mention "Adam's Apples" and "The Green Butchers"! I LOVE both of these movies.

[@williamhazelwood5427]

Mads is definitely in my Top 10 of favorite actors.

[@MrFichstar]

If you want to watch some of his great performances in danish comedies, watch these badboys : Flickering Light (2000) The Green Butchers (2003) Adam's Apples (2005) Men & Chicken (2015) Riders of Justice (2020)

[@fearreavers]

When I first heard they were going to make a Hannibal tv show I didn't think they could do it. I just couldn't see how they would pull him off. THEN I saw who they cast and immediately said this is going to be amazing. He is such an amazing actor. He has so many other amazing roles.

[@ZytphenA]

I had the pleasure of a 10-15min conversation with Mr. Mikkelsen many years ago after he had just finished Hannibal - Absolute gentleman!

[@davidblue78]

Would you please elaborate on the conversation?

[@ZytphenA]

@@davidblue78 It was during the premiere of Salvation - very generous with time and energy at a time I am sure he was stressed and in High demand

[@kasugasawa839]

wow, at his peak then

[@davidblue78]

​@@ZytphenAty for your answer.

[@TheNaturalGamer1]

Yeah sure you did buddy he'd never talk to the likes of you

[@WithHealthbars]

Im still clinging to the hope of season 4 of Hannibal. Just one more season

[@LuisSierra42]

They died

[@alastormedial]

Nah, the ending of 3 was too perfect, I don't want another tbh

[@hennsippin7156]

I go back and forth on this. Season 3 ended so well, but the selfish part of me just wants to see more of him as Hannibal along with the storytelling, vibe and cinematography of the show.

[@JamesEatWorld7758]

@@LuisSierra42they certainly did not

[@MohakJoshi1]

@@JamesEatWorld7758I like to believe they did. It's the perfect ending.

[@sergeyandrushko600]

Hanibal is undoubtedly his best performance, very memorable and unique acting

[@ashish_sunny]

Mads's Le Chiffre was the scariest Bond villain bc he made the character feel very real, grounded, and unpredictable. He had a human touch to him, relatable. His best role was Hannibal Lector though, that TV show was art on screen.

[@ashish_sunny]

Oh and 'The Hunt' of course. Beautiful, very very sad movie.

[@timrush9779]

And that he wasn't trying to take over the world, which is what we expect these days. It was just for money.

[@ashish_sunny]

@@timrush9779 exactly! Well said!

[@ashish_sunny]

@@timrush9779 Vincent Donofrio's Kingpin was scary in this very same regard.

[@timrush9779]

@@ashish_sunny I'm one of few who don't love him in that role.

[@fredskull1618]

His portrayal of Kaicilius in Doctor Strange was really strong. It was a thankless villain role but by sheer talent alone Mads made it memorable.

[@WonderKidWunderkind-ig1ms]

And I love his relative humility, his willingness to accept major villain role after villain role. He realizes that his career will ultimately be defined by the smaller indie roles he takes and is therefore willing to get those big paychecks when they come. It’s knowing your priorities and not rushing the process. A lesson for all of us.

[@tobiasbuhl2037]

I love that the world got to see the talent this danish gem has, he is soo versatile and almost always makes you forget it’s him playing a character, worldwide known for his villain roles and natively in Denmark for his roles in classic dark comedies, great actor

[@Comicbroe405]

Omg I can't believe you guys finally got him on this. Such a legendary actor. He's been in nearly every big franchise.

[@Somerled_Pox]

The Hunt was... wow. Hard to watch, but the unfairness, cruelty and powerlessness of it all was incredibly well portrayed. Glad to see it here being discussed a little as well

[@bottlesalts]

The Hunt actually made me cry. The whole situation is so dreadful. I'd almost consider it a horror because of how excruciating some of it is. Amazing film that really grips you

[@icebox1954]

​​@@bottlesaltsI got a job cleaning in a kindergarten and ever since The Hunt I've actively avoided interactions with children and it's a shame because kids at that age are surprisingly kind and inquisitive creatures. The movie was so powerful it permanently changed my comfortability with children. What a movie.

[@counselor7714]

I cried so much during that movie. It's one of those I wouldn't dare to watch again

[@g0tsp33d]

@@counselor7714 I jerked through it. 3/10.

[@thenoose9800]

Hannibal is amazing yes, but The Hunt is absolutely devastating. It is one of the most depressing works I have ever encountered and Mads' performance is pitch perfect. Innocent but guarded, cynical but empathetic. I cannot recommend it enough if you're able to stomach the premise

[@justalittleme]

what is the premise?

[@thenoose9800]

@@justalittleme A pre-school worker is falsely accused of being a p*dophile and has to deal with the fallout.

[@justalittleme]

@@thenoose9800 oh goodness. i should probably wait before watching that

[@MegaMerdeux]

​@@justalittlemeit's a fantastic film. But yes, it is hard too watch

[@Hysteria98]

@@thenoose9800Well you obviously must have handled it well- you had to even censor the word paedophile, for some bizarre reason.

[@rox8774]

I could listen to him talk forever, literally about anything. He speaks so eloquently

[@ruffsnap]

Mads is such an incredible actor. Fellow American fans of his should really check out some earlier Danish films he's been in like Adam's Apples, Flickering Lights, The Green Butchers, After The Wedding, A Royal Affair, and Pusher. Flickering Lights in particular is a really incredible movie. I really wish Nikolaj Lie Kaas got more love in American films too, he's another really great Danish actor who was in a lot of those aforementioned movies.

[@asgermadsen2296]

I can recommend the "Department Q" movies. Where Nikolaj plays the lead as an investigator. 4 films. All amazing!

[@dontnukeluke]

I second this heavily

[@jonasschjerning1319]

Very true!

[@joe2751]

im very happy that you have found those movies!

[@keepXonXrockin]

I was gonna say, they ignored his danish filmography... That's where I first saw him

[@jadelee6555]

Mad's portrayal of Hannibal was one of the best in cinematic history.

[@ninahatendo6827]

I fell in love with Mads because of Hannibal and went out of my way to watch everything he was in even if i knew i wouldn't like the movies. He acting was always worth it!

[@Missjunebugfreak]

He's one of those actors who doesn't deliver a dull performance no matter the film quality. Mads has an amazing screen presence.

[@Luka2000_]

Mads is truly one of the best villain actors that we have nowadays. Every movie hes in he has this aura that just cant be recreated by other actors.

[@crownclowncreations]

As a Dane I've been a fan of Mads for as long as I can remember, and seeing him get such widespread recognition warms my heart! I'm so happy you also included some of his Danish films! Would've loved to see him talk about some of his more comedic roles, like the ones in Green Butchers, Adam's Apples or Flickering Lights.

[@abigalemiles1928]

I fell in love with Mads through his performance in Hannibal. Such a gruesome show but soooo well done. The way he talks about Hannibal here shows how much he understood the character, and it showed in his acting. And dang, Mads is so dang hot!!!!! 🥵

[@GSGTRFC]

His performance as Hannibal was the one of the best in TV history

[@reii8929]

For everyone who made it far into Death Stranding game Mads really nailed his character in that game really well too and the boss fights with him was epic for me!

[@MrXBT2000]

Yeah, it also has a different feel than a movie character when you get to interact with the character. Personally I'm no big fan of boss fights, but with Cliff Unger it was a unique feeling of calmness in the heat of the battle - as if time stood still, much thanks to Mads' voice acting. Death Stranding is quite unique in so many ways, one thing is the action to calmness contrast. The Cliff-BB cutscenes also plays a big part in that - a moment of calmness before heading out again. Oh, and thanks for the birthday greeting, Mads

[@Rai_S82]

I'm so happy to see The Hunt included in this list! I didn't think enough people would have seen it, and it therefore wouldn't be considered iconic compared to some of his others... He was brilliant as ever in that, and it was such a heartbreaking story!

[@MrsLPAmy]

Bruh, this actor seems so sympathetic and so nice and then he plays the villains, the worst people om earth literally so well. Such a great actor.

[@trollreign1046]

Got kinda typecasted for his intimidating looks in English language films, he is very versatile in Danish ones. Fantastic actor nevertheless.

[@MrsLPAmy]

@@trollreign1046 Yeah, I really gotta watch his Danish movies, too!

[@trollreign1046]

@@MrsLPAmy Definitely start with Another Round and The Hunt by director Thomas Vinterberg. Incredible and humanistic lead performance in both.

[@lodew]

I think Mads really deserves a big role as a protagonist at this point. He is such a brilliant actor, I wish I could see him as a deep character in a dramatic movie or something

[@K086698]

He is one of my favorite actors of all time. I could hear him talk all day.

[@Masterfighterx]

So proud of Mads getting big outside of Denmark, he was already big here, now the world sees what he can do, too bad that it's a more limited audience to his danish movies, which contains some real classics.

[@rudheinsby8458]

@@QueenNikki563 Adams æbler, De grønne slagtere, blinkende lygter... Danish classics

[@ThugHans89]

​@@QueenNikki563definitely watch Adam's apples. It's one of the greatest movies I've watched.

[@markokaranfilovski6840]

Hunt, Another round, Pusher, In China they eat dogs@@QueenNikki563

[@CitrineDream]

He's so cool. I've watched four of his Danish films so far.

[@AA-qb7ni]

He honestly has the coolest voice and personality. Such a talented actor too!!!

[@s.x4644]

To me, he's the iconic bond villain of the modern age. Menacing, capable, calculating and able to beat Bond on occasion in their cat-and-mouse games. Casino Royale is such a great movie and he's the best part of it imo!

[@mf80beats]

If anyone wants to REALLY dig in to his best roles, you have to check out his roles in danish movies like "De Grønne Slagtere" and "Adams Æbler". Truly amazing!

[@ZapOKill]

I totally agree on Adams Æbler, this was his Opus magnum. Such a perfect and disturbing performance, I still get goosebumps when thinking about it.

[@benschrose]

I second that! both awesome movies!

[@moniqueconlan2149]

Another round as well!

[@SelkeaRambles]

En kongelig affære, too!!

[@Bonde7280]

Blinkende lygter!

[@bruklinbeats]

One of my favorite actors ever. His aura is just so intense when he acts. Brings shivers down your spine.

[@daawhra]

one thing about mads mikkelsen is he's gonna defend his characters no matter because he understands them in a deep way. idk if it's the “see the beauty in dark characters” thing or if he just likes them but i really love it

[@sarahmorris7773]

I met Mads once at the Birmingham UK comicon, he was so nice and he signed my Hannibal pop funko, I thanked him for brightening my day and he looked up and smiled at me and shook my hand ❤

[@ReapsVsTheWorld1]

The internet is wild. I am literally playing Death Stranding, and I didn't even know this interview existed. Then it gets recommended on my KZbin. Great stuff.

[@afibuffygirl]

Mads is brilliant. Him as Cliff Unger is still one of my favs. He's one of those actors that is recognized but doesn't get enough recognition for his talent. Hannibal was just so well done, he draws u in with every word

[@usernameRika]

That scene at the end with him and Sam is probably the best directed and acted scene in gaming, ever.

[@AnastasiaCooper]

I remember "Another Round" mysteriously appearing in the small town cinema at my town. And I embraced it. I was struggling with my mental health, having forgotten the reason to live and take care of my self along the way. Yet this Movie was so touching I made a habit out of dressing nicely and watching that movie every wednesday for as long as it ran. For a few hours every wednesday, my life was fine. Movies have the potential to really talk to the audience. I also love that about Adam's Apples btw, a movie that was darkly funny and yet disturbingly personal - Mads portrayed a priest and did an amazing job imho.

[@jonasjrgensen6274]

try " Flickering Lights " or " The Green Butchers " if u like Adams apples

[@salivatinggreed4219]

This is beautiful and I bet that if Mads knew this, he would be so delighted

[@saffoly]

He should win an oscar

[@Ale-st1hy]

REAL

[@laniewebb2551]

I’m so glad mads is getting the recognition he deserves. I never thought someone could play a better Hannibal than Anthony Hopkins till I saw mads performance.

[@Blitzo8390]

One of the best actors working today

[@Inactiveidontusethis]

And the hottest

[@MrFichstar]

His best movies aren't even mentioned in this video. Watch these movies (Subtitles are needed, cause dane speak lol) : Flickering Light (2000) The Green Butchers (2003) Adam's Apples (2005) Men & Chicken (2015) Riders of Justice (2020)

[@Chameleonen]

His break through in DK was 'Rejseholdet' and his role in one of the most iconic Danish film 'Blinkende lygter' he portrayed the dark Danish humor.

[@NeoBladeSC2]

If you like Mads as an actor, watch HANNIBAL. If this had been a movie, he would have been nominated for an Oscar and maybe won it. His presence is breathtaking.

[@moonysofie]

I am sending prayers into the void for a fourth season of Hannibal, you have no idea what that would mean to so many of us. He is absolutely phenomenal.

[@naazahs9045]

Not having more seasons feels like a grave injustice. There was such poise and elegance in that show it rubbed off on the viewer themselves. Wish I had a couple hundred millions to just hand it over for the continuation of this piece of fantastic art and it would be money well spent, every cent of it.

[@TheNaturalGamer1]

You want forgiveness? Go to church

[@ir_ed3150]

I love him. Best actor, charming personality, love the way he looks, love his tone and voice. hope he keep play many films in the future. love love love.

[@metteh.j.4836]

"Pusher" was absolutely amazing - only movie I ever saw twice in the cinemas. I lived in that part of the Copenhagen (Vesterbro) at the time (1996), with fringe acquaintances to "the scene" and an observant eye. Real locations, real vibe. No glorified crime, just a tour of the layers below.

[@losrajvosa0078]

Is that movie when he stoles a ferrari ?

[@filmreviewer117]

Needed more time on him talking about Another Round. It's just so interesting to hear his insight into what I think is his best role.

[@jasontmillermedia]

I had the privilege of briefly speaking with Mads and shaking his hand on the set of Hannibal at the Royal York in Toronto (Series 3). Such a fan of the character and actor that I was so incredibly nervous when speaking with him, but he was so gracious with his time, and I'll never forget it.

[@Poseidon-1]

He’s absolutely amazing in film and his presence in death stranding was also immaculate he turns everything he touches to gold props to him

[@Noah-pq8rv]

My favorite actor of all time! Love him in everything especially his Danish films. Hope he’s allowed to be more than a villain in Hollywood’s eyes (even though he’s such a great one)

[@Noah-pq8rv]

5/5 Mads Mikkelsen Projects: The Hunt, Another Round, Hannibal, Pusher II and Casino Royale

[@MJ-dq8ik]

Mads is a brilliant actor - Im so glad they included THE HUNT and ANOTHER ROUND. Very early in his career, he's in a terrific Swedish crime Coen Brothers type film, FLICKERING LIGHTS and he was amazing in that as well.

[@bertoman1990]

Mads is the villain of ages in my honest opinion. A very profound and well-rounded actor of our time.

[@josephreusch]

Mads as Hannibal is maybe my favourite character portrayal of all time. He is fantastic in everything he is in regardless of the quality of film around him.

[@Romanticoutlaw]

that in an interview breaking down his roles, he can't help but keep talking positively about the people he worked with speaks strongly to his character. He seems like a class act

[@kellybaxter2558]

"Eventually something had to happen and so it did" I love how Mads said that with a smile about Lecter and Will Graham ❤

[@powerhouseinco9664]

He absolutely murdered it as Hannibal. He probably outperformed Anthony Hopkins🔥🔥

[@bytefu]

He definitely did. Mads' performance is much more subtle. Though we should give credit to writers as well, since the show is not a direct translation of Thomas Harris' books to TV, and the character of Hannibal is different.

[@brwnsgrgirl4379]

Can hear the Danish intonation more than usual. He's such a treasure ! Love everything about him

[@mateusv]

Such an icon. How can such a funny and chill guy interpret and become so many of my favourite villains that easily? Takes talent!

[@Emmeth]

I love danish people and Mads Mikkelsen is a top one. I used to not be a big fan of the country growing up because of sporting rivalry (I'm norwegian), the same goes for Sweden too, but I've grown to appreciate them a lot and think of them as neighbors. Especially considering a lot of the norwegian movies and tv-shows we grew up with was originally a danish production, like the Olsen-banden movies for example. Mads is a fantastic actor, just different breed to what you get in Hollywood and I think that honestly goes for scandinavian actors in general.

[@bjorkyorke]

you Scandinavians are just cool

[@simonbsn4072]

don't worry, us danes like norway aswell, but sweden ... lets not talk about them

[@Nazusarum]

I'm danish, but i consider Norwegians and Swedes as my brethren, we tease eachother and rival abit, but in the end, it's all love. I'd love to swap EU with a Kalmar union 2.0.

[@madswn81]

Har du set ham i Rejseholdet eller blinkende lygter?

[@AndreasJepsenMusic]

@@simonbsn4072 Exactly. Norwegians are our dyslexic brother. But Sweden....

[@jasonjlloyd]

He is one of the reasons Casino Royale is an outstanding film. The first third an action film, second a drama/thriller, third a tragic love story all combined to make a terrific film. Craig, Mads and Eva are on absolutely top form and justifiably Royale gave them the exposure to be big stars.

[@RoosterMontgomery]

Mikkelsen is one of the few actors whom I can say, "if he's in it, I'll watch it." Same goes for the likes of Jack Nicholson and Anthony Hopkins.

[@ericcharles8081]

I absolutely loved how he played Hannibal. Mr. Mikkelsen is truly a wonderful and talented actor who’s played a great verity of characters.

[@wanderingtear8882]

He played as Hannibal AFTER Anthony Hopkins. And still his portrayal is admired, respected and remembered. That’s huge!

[@undertakenheart]

HANNIBAL! Such a fantastic and underrated show. It needs to come back. Can't think of a show that challenged me morally like it did.