The Angel (2009)
A raw Norwegian drama about a heroin-addicted mother fighting for dignity, love, and a way forward.
The Angel - Movie Information
- Original Title: Engelen
- Release Year: 2009
- Directed by: Margreth Olin
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Original Language: Norwegian
- Spoken Languages: Norwegian, Swedish
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 2, 2009 (Norway - 15)
- Alternative Titles: Mələk (AZ)
- Production Companies: Speranza Film
- Production Countries: Norway
The Angel - Plot
A drug addict becomes a mother and has to deal with responsibility and self-respect.
The Angel - Trailer
See the world of the film come to life in the official trailer below.
There's no louder cry than being a heroin addict.
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The Angel - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Margreth Olin
Main Cast
- Maria Bonnevie
- Antti Reini
- Benjamin Helstad
- Börje Ahlstedt
- Gunilla Röör
- Lena Endre
- Amanda Jean Kvakland
- Emir Mulasmanovic
- Milla Olin
- Helene Michaelsen
Writers
- Margreth Olin
Producers
- Thomas Robsahm
The Angel - FAQs
What is The Angel about?
The Angel follows Lea, a heroin-addicted woman who becomes a mother and is forced to confront the weight of responsibility and self-worth. The film traces her struggle across different stages of her life, painting an unflinching portrait of addiction, love, and the desperate search for redemption.
Is The Angel based on a true story?
The Angel is not directly based on a single true story, but director Margreth Olin drew on real experiences and extensive research into the lives of women struggling with heroin addiction in Norway. The film's raw authenticity reflects her deep engagement with the subject matter.
Who plays the lead role in The Angel?
Maria Bonnevie plays Lea, the film's central character, as an adult. The role is also portrayed at different ages by Milla Olin as young Lea and Helene Michaelsen as teenage Lea, creating a layered, multi-generational portrait of one woman's life shaped by addiction.
Does The Angel have a hopeful or tragic ending?
The Angel resists easy resolution. Rather than offering a tidy redemption arc or a purely tragic conclusion, the film sits in the uncomfortable space between hope and despair — reflecting the reality of addiction, where progress and setbacks coexist and the outcome is never guaranteed.
Who directed The Angel and what is her background?
Margreth Olin directed The Angel. She is a celebrated Norwegian filmmaker known primarily for her powerful documentaries, including Dei mjuke hendene and Ungdommens råskap. The Angel marked a significant step as she brought her documentary-rooted sensitivity to narrative fiction filmmaking.
Where can I watch The Angel?
Streaming availability for The Angel varies by region. Your best option is to check JustWatch, which tracks current viewing options across rental, purchase, and streaming platforms in your country, giving you the most up-to-date information on where to watch the film.
What language is The Angel filmed in?
The Angel is primarily in Norwegian, with Swedish also spoken in the film. It is a Norwegian production, and viewers watching outside Scandinavia will typically need subtitles. The multilingual texture adds authenticity to the story's Nordic setting and character dynamics.
What films are similar to The Angel?
If The Angel resonates with you, films like Four Good Days (2021), Traffic (2000), Jesus' Son (2000), and The Souvenir (2019) explore similar territory around addiction and its human cost. Postcards from the Edge (1990) and The Poker House (2008) also offer compelling, character-driven perspectives.
More About The Angel
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