Borgen (2010–2013): Season 4, Episode 5 - A Near-Arctic State - full transcript
The Chinese delegation is making plans for oil extraction directly with the Greenlanders. Birgitte Nyborg's change of attitude has left her without quite a few political friends, and she is now also called to a meeting with the US...
A NETFLIX SERIES
[ominous ambient music playing]
"LET CHINA SLEEP, FOR WHEN SHE WAKENS,
THE WORLD WILL TREMBLE"
- NAPOLEON BONAPARTE
Sweetie, have you seen my keys?
[yawns]
[sighs]
-Are you going to class?
-Mm-mm.
Sweetie, can we agree that you put
your dirty clothes in the laundry basket?
-They're everywhere.
-Mm?
I expect to be home at around seven.
We can have dinner?
Sweetie?
[murmurs]
Thanks. Bye.
[Oliver] The Greenlandic delegation
will be at the Foreign Ministry at 11.
We will continue where we left off.
And then there is your quote for Børsen.
"I think Denmark succeeds
in doing business with China
while at the same time having
a vehement, critical dialogue
about human rights."
I don't like "vehement, critical dialogue"
and neither will the Chinese.
We can turn it around and call it
a "positive, comma, critical dialogue"?
-That way we talk about it as a plus.
-Yeah, that's good.
And then, "human rights
among other things".
[Oliver murmurs]
-Have you seen this?
-Yes, I've seen it.
MORE PIGS PUT TO SLEEP
[sizzling]
-Morning.
-Hi.
My goodness, you have been busy.
Yeah. [chuckles]
-Okay, er, juice?
-Yes, thanks.
-Yeah.
-[light laugh]
You're reading The Great Sled Journey.
I thought you'd read it.
I have. It's well worth reading again.
[chuckles]
Here you go.
Thanks.
-I enjoyed last night.
-So did I.
[phone ringing]
[Asger clears throat]
It's… It's Birgitte.
Well, answer it.
-Good morning.
-Good morning. I enjoyed last night.
[Asger] Yeah, me too.
I know I was a bit harsh towards
the Greenlandic delegation yesterday,
but we'll make that right today.
We'll treat them to a really nice lunch,
and then we'll land a deal.
Hello?
Yeah. Sorry, I'm here. Yeah… Er…
I just got a, er… just got a text
from Emmy Rasmussen.
Erm…
[Asger] Hans has gone back to Greenland.
-What?
-Yeah.
So the negotiations
have officially broken down.
You have to go up there
and make it right, Asger.
Get on the first plane to Greenland.
Make Hans come round and make sure
he doesn't speak to China alone.
Yep. Got that.
Hans has gone back to Greenland.
This is hell.
When did he leave?
Last night. I didn't see it until now.
[sighs]
-I have to get up there immediately.
-Yeah. Me too.
We won't get to enjoy that nice breakfast.
But thanks.
Maybe next time.
Yeah. Maybe.
Er… do you want to be the one
to inform Rasmus about the talks…?
From: Michael Laugesen -
Behind Nordea Bank in 7 mins?
I have to meet someone first.
Who are you meeting?
Er, Majken?
Can you just let me off here?
I'll make my own way to the ministry.
[theme music playing]
Oliver? I was just told
that Hans has gone back.
-What happened? When did you find out?
-Asger called when we were in the car.
-Where's the minister?
-She has a private meeting.
It's not in her calendar.
-She made the appointment herself.
-That's a no-go.
-You have to control your minister.
-Yeah.
And it's a problem that Hans
has gone back to Greenland.
-Nina, get me Lars and Claus from legal.
-Yeah.
-We need to get hold of Asger.
-He's on his way to the airport.
-Then get his deputy up here.
-This is Nina Estrup.
Can you and Claus come up here right away?
-[Rasmus] Notify the Treasury.
-The Treasury?
I'll handle that.
And I'll inform Niels Erik
in the PM's office right away.
Oh, he's gonna kill me.
This is Oliver Hjorth
from the minister's office.
Yes, hello, this is Nina Estrup
from the Foreign Ministry.
Hi, Niels Erik.
So, we have a slight problem.
Katrine, you have to see
what we got from Greenland.
-I mean…
-[Dan] I've only started editing.
It has to go online this afternoon.
[reporter] The Greenlandic Minister
for Natural Resources, Hans Eliassen,
yesterday left the negotiations
with Denmark on potential oil revenues.
This morning Hans Eliassen
received representatives
from the Chinese group Qingxing Enterprise
which bought into the oil company.
China calls itself "a near-Arctic state"
to underscore its interests in the Arctic.
And, Hans Eliassen,
why did you choose to leave
the negotiations with Birgitte Nyborg?
It seems like Nyborg needed to read up
on the Greenlandic Home Rule Act.
Greenland has regained control
of its resources,
but is still dealing with Copenhagen
and a right to set the agenda.
[reporter] Does that happen
often in dialogue with Denmark?
Yes, and not only regarding
natural resources.
Nyborg is really going to have to answer
to the Americans
when they see the Chinese
on the inland ice.
Oh yeah, and to the Prime Minister.
It's more fuel to the fire.
[Mikkel] There's unrest in the party.
I mean, Nyborg's popularity has fallen
tremendously in the latest polls.
She started out as the most
trustworthy politician in the government.
A COSTLY U-TURN
[Mikkel] Now she's near the bottom.
I read this morning that summer is coming.
That came as quite a surprise.
Would you believe me if I told you
that I never cared which season it is?
Yeah. I believe you.
But we didn't meet to talk
about the weather, did we?
Your approval rating is terrible.
Your support base is crumbling.
The negotiations with Greenland
could end up as an international crisis.
And your boss doesn't seem
to be lacking excuses to fire you.
-Like she fired you?
-No, I think that was your doing.
First of all, we have to create
sympathy towards you.
And that begins on social media.
Who the hell is running your Instagram,
Facebook and Twitter profile?
-I run them myself.
-That's goddamn hopeless.
And it ends now.
Your Insta's shit.
There are only pictures of you
shaking hands with boring people.
-Like the German chancellor?
-Yes. That was an official picture.
Selfies are much better.
It's called "social media"
because you need to interact
with your followers.
Look at Signe Kragh.
She bloody well knows what she's doing.
Here is our sweet Signe
having a cup of coffee on a bad day.
"Handball girl Signe congratulates
the international
women's team on their victory."
Here is Signe's cat on a sheepskin rug.
-I mean, that's…
-Sweet Signe is baking a cake.
I don't have time to bake a cake.
I'm working.
Then make time.
It's all about building a brand.
Yours is 12 years old.
Something new comes along all the time.
You know what?
I just hate to see politicians
prostitute their private lives
to market themselves.
What were you doing when you
rode your bike to work as PM?
You knew perfectly well
what you were doing back then.
Now you're just slacking.
There is a difference between
riding a bike in public
and staging your private life.
By the way, you left out something
when you were listing my problems,
which is that my son hijacked
a pig transporter
and that several of the pigs
had to be put down afterwards,
so I'm also the mother
of an animal abuser.
That's because it's not a problem.
It could be your salvation.
Shouldn't we do a segment on Nyborg
where we show the pressure she's under?
Her waning popularity.
We'd need to get someone in
who knows her well.
[murmurs]
How about Kasper Juul?
That's an excellent idea.
Or is that too personal?
No, no, it's fine.
But he's in London now.
He's only in Denmark every fourth weekend.
And not the upcoming weekend,
so says the mother of his child.
How about you, Katrine?
-You've been Nyborg's special adviser.
-That's a good idea.
No, I don't think I should appear
on screen now.
Well, as long as you're just appearing
as an expert, it's not problematic.
-[Narciza] Hi there.
-[Torben] Hi.
[Pia] I agree completely with Torben.
Katrine, you can easily do it.
Okay. I think we should get
someone else to do it,
but if we can't find someone, I'll do it.
And the Chinese ambassador
has just agreed to come on tonight at 9:30
and that's your show, Narciza.
Well, cool. I've got lots
I'd like to discuss with China.
As long as we all agree
that the topic this time is China's
business interests in Greenland.
-Okay?
-Yeah.
FACEBOOK: YOU WERE TAGGED IN A POST
-Okay, let me just…
-[Pia] Yep.
FØNSMARK - TV1 TYRANT, NOT A LEADER
Facebook: Fønsmark, go home.
Let the grown-ups work.
Facebook: Power-hungry bitch!
Where the hell have you been?
The PM's office is furious
the negotiations have collapsed.
We'll talk about it in private.
TV1 called. Hans Eliassen has made
a statement about talks breaking down.
-They want a comment in 10 minutes.
-Fine. Arrange it in the conference room.
-And then--
-Not now.
How can you make a statement
without speaking to the PM first?
I have to.
Hans can't have all the coverage.
Hans talked to the press
because this ministry messed up.
It was very unprofessional, Birgitte.
We can expect the PM's office
to take back the handling of this matter.
You and I aren't playing
by the same rules.
-You said that, by the way.
-[sighs]
You yelled at the Greenlandic delegation.
This will be a shitstorm in the press.
Yes, but to a good politician
a shitstorm can sometimes
be better than no coverage at all.
This will take 5-7 minutes,
and then we have to…
-[Birgitte] Hi.
-Hi. Hi.
-[phone rings]
-Birgitte, have a look at this.
You'll be on after this interview
with Hans Eliassen.
[interviewer] Why did you choose to leave
the negotiations with Nyborg?
[Hans] Not just about natural resources.
For instance I believe that only Greenland
should negotiate and sign agreements
in the Arctic Council.
Greenland is in the Arctic,
not Denmark, after all.
-Okay.
-Okay? Super.
[Benjamin] Yes, it's rolling there.
Birgitte Nyborg, is the relationship
with Greenland at all icy?
It most certainly isn't.
Hans Eliassen is the leader of a party
fighting for independence from Denmark,
and he is very good at advancing
his political agenda
by distancing himself from us.
It's just politics.
Have you consulted
with the Prime Minister?
Anything else would be unprofessional.
As soon as we've any news,
we'll let you know.
-Thanks.
-Thank you.
-Take care.
-Thanks.
Birgitte, the Prime Minister
is trying to get hold of you.
Yes, I can see that.
Rasmus says he's moved your appointments,
so we can go there right away.
[Oliver] That is a beautiful
Instagram post you made.
Nice picture.
"Squinting at the sun.
May is the most beautiful month."
"Remember to notice that."
Got 672 likes and 1,000 new followers.
-You haven't bought them, have you?
-Bought?
Didn't know you could do that.
The Prime Minister will see you now.
Let me start by saying that I'm sorry
about your son and the pig transporter.
Do let me know if you need some time off.
No, thank you, I don't.
I'm just a bit worried when Greenland
walks out of your negotiations
because you'd apparently
been yelling at them.
It's not unusual
for feelings to run high in politics.
But we don't shout
in this government, Birgitte.
You're constantly making statements
to the media without informing me
even though you claimed on TV1
that I had been informed.
As I recall, it wasn't long ago
that you told me
that this matter was mine
and mine alone to solve,
and that I was standing alone
on an ice floe.
Why do you want to stand
on it there with me now?
Because the world's two largest economies,
the USA and China,
have become involved
and are on the attack.
And because you proved a long time ago
that you're not a team player.
I'm sure you know more
about handball than me,
but as far as I know
there is only one goalkeeper.
You will inform your boss!
Is that understood?
[scoffs]
[sharp inhale] This won't do.
The two of us like this, it… won't do.
No.
And the press knows it
and are trying to expose it.
-[sighs]
-But we won't allow them to do it.
Cos we're not unprofessional.
So what do you think we should do?
I'm not the prime minister.
But if were, I think I might suggest
to my foreign minister
that we hold a joint press conference
about the entire matter
here in the Prime Minister's office.
And we could concede the right
to Greenland that from now on
they will speak first
in the Arctic Council
and sign their own agreements,
as well as being featured
on all official photos.
That suggestion
should come from you, of course.
Because that way we will show,
at the same time, that you are the boss
and that I'm a team player.
It was announced today
that the company behind the potentially
considerable oil find in Greenland,
which is a part of Denmark,
now has Chinese owners.
And just moments ago,
Secretary of State Ted Wayne
offered the first official comment
from the government.
We're very concerned about China
now being involved
in critical infrastructure in Greenland.
It's something we'll have to discuss
with our closest ally, Denmark.
[newsreader] Global News
will be following the situation closely.
-For background and further--
-[TV switches off]
[phone chimes]
Facebook: Stuck-up snot-shovel!
Facebook: Total control freak
Facebook: When she was young, she was hot
Fucked her way to the top?
Have you made any comments to that story?
The story about me
and the Ekspres on Facebook?
No, I've spoken to a friend, but…
Is that friend also a journalist?
Who might have spoken
to other friends who are journalists?
And suddenly the rumours are swirling?
It's… Well, I can't control Facebook.
-[scoffs] No. You can't.
-[sets phone down]
But the two of us can agree
that from now on
you don't talk to journalists.
We're closing it now.
You will start no more stories.
Yeah. Sure. That's fine.
Thank you. Have a good show.
[indistinct chatter]
Are you okay?
-No. You're a bit of a disturbance.
-A disturbance?
Yeah. But…
-[laughs]
-So are you.
I usually get all doped up when I fly.
-But because I was with you I forgot to.
-Mm.
-It's a big deal.
-[Emmy chuckles]
[man] Emmy, hi.
-Hi.
-Hi.
What are you doing here?
I wanted to surprise you.
-Er…
-Excuse me. I'm Aqqaluk.
I'm Emmy's husband.
Oh, okay. Hi. Hi. Asger.
Where are you going? Do you want to…?
We can give you a ride to the hotel.
Er… No, no, no, you don't have to do that.
There's a car coming.
CEC are sending a car.
I'll just get a ride with that.
It's no trouble at all.
No, it's okay. I'll just wait.
Thank you though. Thank you.
Let's just go. See you later, Asger.
Yeah, see you later.
-Yeah. Nice to meet you. Bye.
-[Aqqaluk] Bye.
[car engine starts]
[sombre string music playing]
[car door closes]
Do you remember Malik?
The guy who used to drive for you?
He was a young Greenlandic guy
who, er, just died.
Oh, right.
I remember him.
Very sad.
But I think suicides,
it's quite common up here.
Right.
[dishes clattering]
Okay… "Usually I wouldn't even take part
in a heated debate like this
where my character is being discussed."
"And especially not when the rhetoric
is so vociferous and unqualified…."
I can't sleep. Gustav is making noise.
[Søren] Gustav!
-No more screen time!
-He'll stop now, honey.
[Søren] Past nine.
Go to bed. I'll check on you in a bit.
[Søren] She can hear everything
through that shitty drywall.
She needs a real room for herself.
I know. The contractor is coming
tomorrow and he have a look at it.
[Narciza] …the Chinese ambassador
to Denmark, Tao Ying.
-Mr Tao, welcome.
-Thank you.
-China has become a majority partner…
-Hey.
[Søren] Hm?
Will you read my comments
and tell me what you think?
…unusual that Denmark agreed
to collaborate with a country like China
-in such a manner?
-China and Denmark
have signed a strategic
partnership agreement,
and the oil in Greenland
should be considered a continuation
of our excellent collaboration.
But, many people in the West
can't really imagine
collaborating with the Chinese
without also having a critical view
on human rights issues.
I thought we were going
to talk about the oil in Greenland.
-When we talk about the oil…
-I thought that too.
…we're also talking about Greenland,
and consequently Denmark,
doing business with a country
that persecutes people with other views.
For example,
a new Amnesty International
report recently revealed
that Muslims are being rounded up
in special camps
where they have to undergo re-education
because of their religious beliefs.
Shut the fuck up, Narciza.
[Narciza] It goes on to say that torture
is being used to achieve these goals.
[Tao Ying] It's fake news.
I have to stress that you invited me here
to talk about Chinese ambitions
in relation to the Greenlandic oil--
-But when we talk about collaboration…
-Shut up!
…between Denmark and China, we can't
really ignore the fact that China--
I don't believe it.
That was exactly what I said not to do.
Did you read my comments?
Yes. Y-Yeah, I don't think
you should publish them.
I mean, I think you should
rise above the noise.
This is private.
That, on the other hand, that is not okay.
She's right that they, erm,
violate human rights again and again,
but that wasn't what
the interview was about.
That right there will come home
to roost for you as the head of news.
I'd react to that.
And I would like to do that,
but every single time I say something
to Narciza she does the opposite.
Honey.
What did you want to do
when you took the job?
I want us to be the best.
Yeah.
-That wasn't the best.
-No, it wasn't.
And I have to tell her that.
Yeah.
[Michael] Birgitte, we must use
the Magnus story.
I talked to Denmark Today. They'd like to
see both of you in the studio tomorrow.
This is the most
important thing for you now.
I'm pretty sure that Denmark's
relations with the US and China
are a bit more important.
There are no emotions in that.
There are emotions in your son,
and you're good at emotions.
Did you see my post for today?
Bam! Emotions.
1,400 likes.
You've never gotten that many before.
Just wait, you will soon be
all of Denmark's favourite Birgitte again.
But tell me,
why do we worry so much about the US
when we gain more
from having a close relation to China?
Because China isn't a democracy.
Erm, they don't have a free press,
they persecute dissenters.
What do you want me to say?
Did you know that
what comes out of a dog is really gross?
No. I didn't know you had a dog.
No, it's not my dog. I'm just seeing
someone who has one of those chihuahuas.
Half dog, half rat.
But consider the thing about China.
Can't you see the double standard
in Denmark and Europe
trading with them more than ever before
but China can't even set their foot
in Greenland before the US freaks out?
It doesn't make sense.
Why not just welcome China to Greenland?
Because it's a completely absurd thought.
Yes, and that's why you hired me, right?
To say the crazy and inappropriate things,
such as making friends
with a tyrannical state
or inviting your kids on TV.
Birgitte, this is a golden opportunity.
People will love to see you
with your hair down and be Magnus' mum.
Michael, we're not talking
about my children.
It will work. I promise.
-I have to go now.
-But think about it.
-Magnus?
-[murmurs]
Hi, Mum.
[murmurs] Were you on the phone?
It was just work.
[inhales] Honey, I was thinking, erm…
Are you paying attention
to how much your involvement
in that pig transporter
is being discussed in the press?
Hmm. You've always taught me
you don't have to worry
too much about the press.
No, at times I've said
you shouldn't worry too much about them.
This isn't one of them.
Mum,
what's your agenda?
That you use the attention
you obviously have right now
to do something reasonable.
Like apologising for what happened.
-That you and I will go on TV and say--
-What?
Er, wait a minute.
The two of us on Denmark Today
where you apologise for breaking the law
and for 17 pigs dying because of it.
Not gonna happen
They would've died anyway.
-Magnus.
-Mum, no.
[phone ringing]
Well, then I'll have to do it by myself
and apologise on your behalf.
No, you're not apologising on my behalf.
Hi, Alba.
No, no. No, I'm just arguing with Mum.
[female host] And that was the news
read and edited by Anja Kornmod.
[male host] And we're back again
with CPH Morning.
Oh my, the Nyborg family is getting flack
for their pigheaded actions.
[female host]
We're of course talking about
the matter of the Foreign Minister's
21-year-old son
who got no fewer than 17
cute little piglets put down
prompting a press scandal.
[male host] Later we will be joined
by the chairwoman for Animal Protection
who fiercely disapproves
of both the action and of Nyborg's son.
[Oliver] Ready for the press
conference with the PM?
-[Birgitte] Yep.
-The car is downstairs.
No coat. It's one of those days.
-The press department has prepared notes.
-She doesn't need them.
Birgitte, Washington wants to see you
and have a friendly word with you.
Okay? When's my flight?
Fortunately you're only going to Germany.
Wayne is at the G7 meeting.
We've chartered a plane
so you can get quickly back and forth.
It leaves at 1 p.m.
and the meeting is at 3:00.
What if I can't be there until 4:00?
This is the United States.
Yes, but if we're just following orders,
we'll have surrendered from the start.
Listen, the US is still the world's
most powerful country
and has been our closest ally
for the last 70 years.
We don't question that
on a random Wednesday
just because we feel like it.
Thanks, Rasmus.
I'll let the world press know.
[lift bell chimes]
[lift door closes]
Twitter: Fønsmark flouts maternity rules.
Shocking to hear how employees' rights
in the news department are being ignored.
Good morning.
Good morning.
Narciza went all-out yesterday. [chuckles]
I'll say.
I'll give her a few notes on that.
-Yeah.
-Yeah.
Have you heard any… rumours
or any other weird things
about maternity leave?
I saw this post on Facebook.
Er, look, here it says…
Er… "Fønsmark flouts maternity rules."
"Shocking to hear how
employees' rights in the news department
are being ignored."
Yes, but isn't that just people talking?
About what?
Well… [sighs]
I think that somebody overheard
you tell Mie that you didn't think
it was a good idea to get pregnant.
I've never said that.
[sharp inhale]
Okay, back when I…
Erm, I mean, yeah, okay, yeah…
But that wasn't what I said… [sighs] Fuck.
I just wanted her to go to Greenland
because she's good.
I didn't mean that I wanted to change
the fucking rules for maternity leave.
But your words carry more weight
now that you're the boss.
-That's the way it is.
-Oh, this is insane.
-Okay. Yeah. I'll talk to her.
-Yes.
-We're starting.
-Be there in a minute.
Good. Fine.
To: Mie Lorentzen
Dear Mie. Saw a strange story on Twitter.
Let's keep it in-house.
Call me, please? xx
Yep. Before we start, er, Katrine has
a few remarks to the 9:30 yesterday.
Yeah. Erm… But it's actually
mostly to Narciza
so maybe the two of us
should just take two minutes?
[Pia] Okay. Good. Then we'll start.
My colleagues can hear
what you have to say, Katrine.
Yeah. Erm…
Your interview yesterday with
the Chinese ambassador was problematic
because you digressed from the topic
to suddenly stress a point
about human rights
which wasn't the point
of the interview at all.
-So what was the point of the interview?
-We agreed on that yesterday, right?
The oil in Greenland.
We would like to understand
China's business ambitions
in relation to what
the Americans are worrying about.
So you don't think it's unsettling
that the Chinese
send Muslims to re-education camps?
Well, Amnesty's newest report
documents the use of torture.
We are talking electroshock therapy
and physical restraints.
Or are we only interested
in portraying Muslims
as terrorists, fugitives
or criminal immigrants?
[murmurs]
-I don't agree that's what we're doing.
-[phone chimes]
The point is, this wasn't
what we invited him in to talk about.
And if you break the agreement
with the guest--
Hello? Are you paying attention?
If you break the agreement with the guest,
you might get a bad interview,
which you did.
No. Sorry, but aren't we waiving the right
to do critical journalism?
I'm serious.
If we always toe the line
and only have people in the studio
that have agreed to all
the questions and answers ahead of time,
aren't we just microphone holders
for a rehearsed reality?
Listen. You will have to learn
to take criticism
without turning it into a matter
of whether or not
we are killing critical journalism.
You did a bad interview.
There are many reasons
to worry about China.
But I can assure you
that the Americans aren't worried
with regards to Greenland
because of Muslim re-education camps.
It's about the Thule Air Base,
American geopolitical interests
and the expansive
business strategy of the Chinese.
And that was what you should have
asked the ambassador about.
-Okay, if we can move on--
-So you're giving me a gag order?
Just like Mie?
Excuse--
Everyone knows what
what you told her about maternity leave.
That's totally out of order.
Okay, so you two talk?
That message was from Mie?
Yes, we talk.
Aren't we allowed to do that?
Is that something you want to control?
-Stop. You're way out of line.
-[Pia] We have a show we need to plan.
I apologise to the rest of you.
You, come with me.
Yeah.
I mean, what kind of TV station is this?
[Dan] What's our opening segment?
We can expect to see a rising
oil consumption in the coming years
while also wanting to accelerate
the green innovation in Denmark.
Thank you to the Foreign Minister.
And now we will open up for questions.
I can see that Politiken are first up.
This is for the Foreign Minister.
When we hear that the American
Foreign Minister is very critical
about the Chinese
being let in to Greenland,
how can you defend that partnership?
Denmark and the US are strong allies
with regards to things such as NATO,
but we don't believe that will prevent us
from cooperating with China on oil.
And by the way, China has overtaken the US
as the EU's primary trade partner.
-And TV1?
-This is also for the Foreign Minister.
You come across
as very much in agreement on oil,
but the fact is the New Democrats
campaigned on even more ambitious goals
for climate than the Labour Party.
Were you forced to fall into line,
Birgitte Nyborg,
when you saw how much money
was on the line?
Oh, I don't know.
Signe, what do you think?
Was I forced to fall into line?
I don't know if anybody believes
that you can force
-Birgitte Nyborg to fall into line.
-[laughter]
We don't force people in this government.
We discuss what is best for Denmark.
[Benjamin] We are in the PM's office,
but it's mainly the Foreign Minister
talking about the matter.
Which of you is leading the negotiations?
That has to be a question
for the Prime Minister.
I actually think this press conference
reflects our collaboration well.
For this government,
team effort is the important thing.
[Signe] And Ekspres has a question.
[woman] Do you think it will have
any consequences for your political career
that your son could go to jail
because of pig transportation?
I don't think Ekspres read the invitation
for this press conference,
so let's take another question instead.
-[clamouring]
-I think that will be all for today.
-Thanks.
-Thanks.
It's our pleasure
to fly you to Munich today.
-We'll take off in about five minutes.
-Thanks very much.
[Oliver] Oliver Hjorth. Yes.
Just a moment,
I'll check if she's available.
Do you have five minutes
for the Chinese ambassador?
This is Birgitte Nyborg.
[Tao Ying] Beijing is very pleased with
the new and strengthened collaboration
regarding Greenland,
which Denmark can also see
many potential advantages in.
Absolutely, Mr Ambassador.
And also, I want to wish you
a very good meeting
with the American Foreign Minister.
Thank you.
And I hope the ambassador bears in mind
that the United States have been
an ally of Denmark for many, many years.
I also hope that you,
Madam Minister, remembers
that China provided you
personally with some information
that I believe was
of considerable importance
in a recent meeting
in the Foreign Policy Committee.
I'll do whatever I can.
-Thank you very much, Madam Minister.
-Yeah. Thank you.
What did he want?
To remind Denmark
who our true friends are.
-[plane engine starts]
-[call button chimes]
[pilot, over PA]
Cabin crew, flight ready and crosscheck.
Have you heard that Kragh
will now approve all the press releases
from every ministry
before they're sent out?
I mean, that's nuts.
Even though I can kind of see
the advantage of being able to control
what your employees
run around saying in public.
I can't comprehend her reaction
to my reasonable criticism.
-I agree. It was a bad interview.
-It got completely out of hand.
I gave her a warning,
and now I'm notifying HR.
I'm just trying to get this department
to make the best news.
But if this is what you're faced with,
it's bloody impossible.
The 1st of March 2016.
-What's that?
-The day I stopped as head of news.
The same day I stopped
officially having any opinion
on how I thought employees
ought to behave.
And you know what?
My blood pressure decreased.
My sleep rhythm got better.
My mood. My marriage.
I could remember my own children
and almost remember how old they were.
You and I, we can talk
about almost anything else.
But what you're doing right now… Huh?
Having all these thoughts about
how you want your employees
in this department to behave…
Katrine, in a way,
that's for you and you alone.
I can't help you.
But you have a nice business card.
There are seven figures on your paycheque.
I moved to the suburbs. [chuckles]
And bought a house of fun.
The most important thing is that…
I'm your friend.
I will always be that.
Okay?
[drills whirring]
[Hans] So we'll be up and running
within two weeks' time.
So there will be a lot more activity
within the coming weeks.
Hans.
[truck doors closing]
-Can you excuse me for a moment?
-[woman] Sure, see you later.
We've been trying to reach you.
Well, it's just to show
that they're part of this thing.
My boss, who's also your boss,
would like to speak to you.
You leave the negotiations,
go home without informing me
and you talk to the press
without coordinating with Naalakkersuisut.
It's just politics.
I'm not from the same party
as our Premier.
She wants to be closer
to Copenhagen than I do.
-Hello.
-[woman] Nice to meet you.
Asger Holm Kirkegaard, acting ambassador.
-Welcome, Ambassador.
-Thank you.
On behalf of Qingxing Enterprises,
allow me to convey to you
how much we're looking forward
to the collaborations.
As are we. And the…
And the Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs
sends her warmest regards.
Hans, once again I'm sorry
about how the meeting in Copenhagen ended.
Please, don't mention it.
We'll move forward now.
Ms Li will give us an update. Please.
We've already done a lot of work
with Hans Eliassen's department,
and I'm sure you will be pleased to hear
that the test drillings are so promising
that the plans for a refinery
will be realised.
And it will be quite vital
that we have a shipping port constructed
that can accommodate the big tankers.
The bay just out here
is unfortunately too shallow,
but we've found
a suitable location further up north
where we can build a harbour
of considerable size.
Hi, Birgitte. This is Asger.
Will you please call
when you hear this message?
We have some new challenges
with the Chinese…
-[Emmy] Asger!
-…which we will have to…
Erm…
I think you should find out
who has the right to use the area
where the Chinese want
to build the harbour.
[sombre ambient music playing]
[door opens, closes]
You asked for a meeting?
-Yeah.
-[door closes]
This, er, is Lone Jacobsen from HR.
I believe you know each other.
I thought… [clears throat]
…it would be a good idea
for Lone to join us. Erm…
According to your contract,
you have to support the editorial line
laid out by management.
Yeah. What's this about?
So it won't do
that you can't take criticism
and won't accept my authority,
or that after a verbal warning
you continue to criticise this station
through the media.
I'VE BEEN GAGGED
You told me I wasn't allowed
to make any comment.
-That was all I said.
-"No comment" means saying nothing.
That is yet another attack, hm?
Why are HR here?
Because I have a responsibility
to the entire team.
Our conflict has been building
for a very long time.
You are a very good anchor. You are.
I want you to know that. I think you are.
But you keep questioning my authority,
even when the decision is mine to make.
I'm your boss, and I'm also hired
to lead the entire department.
And this has gotten to a point
where it affects the editorial climate.
So I'm afraid that you cannot stay on
as news anchor in this department.
Excuse-- What's going on?
[Lone] When there are
interpersonal differences this severe
the decision sits with the head of news.
I have been the highest profile anchor
for the last three years!
And for good reason. I, er…
It's either your way
or the highway, isn't it?
I actually think
you handled that really well.
Thank you.
Danke.
[woman] The American Foreign Minister
will be ready in a moment.
Just let me know if there is
anything that you need.
Thanks very much.
I'VE BEEN GAGGED
MAGNUS NYBORG - KILLED 17 PIGS:
"I LOVE ANIMALS"
To: Magnus Nyborg
I was sorry to read the story
[phone keyboard clacking]
Hello there, Birgitte.
It's good to finally meet you.
It's a pleasure.
It's great that you come
with such short notice.
-Why don't we go talk to the press first?
-What do you mean?
We've just gathered
a few reporters next door
so that we can give a joint statement.
I really don't see
how we can give a joint statement
when we haven't even talked yet.
[takes deep breath] Of course.
It's lovely to meet
an experienced colleague.
There are so many rookies.
Well then, let's take a walk.
My grandfather was here in '45
with Patton's Third Army to kill Germans.
Now they're the ones protecting us.
How 'bout that?
Well, in Denmark, we were very grateful
to your grandfather and the Allies
for their help
in giving us back our freedom.
Anyhow, it just so happened
to be Greenland,
and not least the Thule Air Base,
that ended up bringing us together
and cementing our bond after the war.
And I think we'd all like
that close relationship to continue
to be just as close in the future.
Denmark has no intentions
of altering that relationship.
Pardon me, but the way you spoke of China
during your press conference this morning
definitely came across
like a clear opening.
Well, we can't ignore the fact
that China has legally acquired
the majority of the drilling company.
It's the position of the United States
that the oil industry
is critical infrastructure.
We can't accept
a Chinese presence in an area
that we consider vital
for American geopolitical interests.
I acknowledge that you're engaged
in a trade war with China,
but I hope you can see
the problem in us contesting
binding business agreements based solely
on the other part being Chinese.
[sighs]
Just make it go away, Birgitte.
Pardon me, Ted?
Do you mind snapping a selfie together?
[shutter clicking]
Thank you.
You're welcome.
[Oliver] Did it go well?
[Birgitte] I wouldn't exactly say that.
I just went to the drill site
and met the Chinese group management.
They are certainly not wasting any time.
[Birgitte] And that's a big problem
for the Americans.
The very fact that China owns the company
is certainly a problem for the Americans.
It's not a problem for Hans who just wants
independence for Greenland
no matter how close
he gets to the Chinese.
The best thing would certainly be
if we could slow things down a bit
so the Americans feel we listened to them.
Exactly. Listen.
The Chinese are planning to build
a shipping port further north.
The only problem is that
you cannot own land in Greenland.
[Asger] You can only get
the, er, the right of use to an area.
And who has the right of use?
It's, er, a local fisherman
and whaler called Josva Johansen
who has his whaling cabin on that site.
I thought we might buy ourselves some time
if we can obstruct the construction
of the harbour.
That's an excellent idea.
Get hold of this Josva.
Yeah, I'm trying.
Er, Emmy, er… Emmy Rasmussen,
she's helping me get in touch with him
without involving Hans.
I might be able to go sailing
with him this afternoon.
Sounds good. Bye.
We're still planning on going
straight to Today's Denmark
even though Magnus isn't coming, right?
Yeah. I'll handle it.
And there's a change of clothes
in the car.
-Thanks.
-Hm.
What's going on?
We started half an hour ago.
I've just had an insane day.
I have to go back to the studio soon.
I fired Narciza.
We had this ridiculous argument,
and I had to give her a warning.
-And then HR got involved…
-Because of that interview?
[sighs] I don't know.
There were a thousand things.
-I can't even explain how it all started.
-And now you regret it, is that it?
I don't know. [sighs]
She was really upset.
-Yeah.
-[phone chimes]
But… No, can we just…?
-Yeah, I just have to see this.
-He's only here for…
From: Pia - You need to see this:
Hi, guys.
Er, sorry if I seem a bit flustered.
[chuckles]
But I have just been fired.
So you won't be seeing me
making news here on TV1.
I will miss you. [chuckles] Erm…
And my fantastic colleagues
cos I've really loved going to work here.
I hope to see you again.
Take care out there.
[grumbles] I think it'll be difficult
for me to go below two.
-Two million?
-Yeah. You need a new roof.
Three new wet rooms.
You need all new doors and windows.
Then you want to create an extra room.
Yes, but, er, that's a bit more
than we were thinking, to be honest.
There's no way
this is costing us two million.
I mean, it's not the entire roof
that needs to be changed,
and the former owner renovated
one of the bathrooms.
1.7 or we'll have to find someone else.
And that's including VAT. I just need to…
[departing footsteps]
-[knocking on door]
-Yeah, come in.
[door opens]
Tanja.
Wow, you've got a… you've got a…
[chuckles] Do you like it?
Yeah, yeah. I do, I do. Yeah. Oh my. Wow.
Malik was supposed to get one too.
-I really think it looks good on you.
-Thanks.
Well, I'm really here to pick you up.
-You wanted to meet Josva.
-Yeah, that's right. Yes.
Emmy rang me.
Josva is my grandfather's brother.
The brother of my grandpa, you know?
Yeah. And thank you
for introducing me to him.
No problem.
Well…
Tanja, I assume I'm not supposed
to ask why you're not in school.
Or why you smell a bit like
you've been smoking a joint as well?
-[chuckles] Come on.
-Yeah.
Yeah.
[seagulls squawking]
[drills whirring]
-[Josva] Tanja, is it okay?
-Yeah, it's fine.
-[Josva] Maintain your speed.
-Yep.
Are you alright?
I just have to look
at the horizon, I think.
[Asger] Then I'll be fine.
Thanks. [clears throat]
Josva.
I know that, er…
I know that many
here in Greenland are happy
because oil's been found,
because it might mean that
you can gain independence from Denmark,
and I can understand that.
I can completely understand that.
But I also have to say
that right now, Josva,
I don't think it's Denmark
and Copenhagen you need to fear.
Because, as you know,
there is always a bigger fish out there.
And the Chinese are planning
to build a harbour
where you're hunting
and catching your whales.
And that is why we, Denmark,
need to buy ourselves some time,
or else the Americans will get mad,
and we can't have that.
Furthermore, Josva, I don't think
that it would be good
for your whaling if a big harbour
is built in the middle of it.
Would it?
That's the reason why I'm here right now.
To ask if you, in any way, can say no
if or when the Chinese come around
and ask if they can build that harbour.
You're a good man.
But you're too late.
Hans Eliassen and the Chinese
got here first.
And they paid me…
for permission to build that harbour.
This boat. Three hundred horsepower.
It was a gift.
[ominous instrumental music playing]
[Josva] They're beginning
the construction in 14 days.
It's been hard not to notice
the recent internal conflict
within the New Democrats.
Party leader Birgitte Nyborg
has experienced an increasing
lack of support from her base,
and the turmoil surrounding
the Greenlandic oil…
Hi, Mother-in-law. Turn it up.
One of the people who has known her best
and followed her closely
both as reporter
and as her special adviser
is you, Katrine Fønsmark. Welcome.
Thank you.
-You've worked more closely with Nyborg…
-Go to two here.
-…than practically anyone else.
-Ready one.
What kind of Nyborg
are we experiencing these days?
Well, it is a top politician
under extreme pressure.
And you have to say
that she is partly to blame
for the very difficult situation she's in.
Last week she completely changed her mind
on the climate policy she campaigned on.
And the voters
will react to that, of course.
-[Rasmus] Yeah?
-Asger's attempt to buy us time failed.
Yes, he emailed me.
I told you this would be a problem.
Yes, but I'm not asking you to tell me
"I told you so", am I?
No, but Greenland controls
its own natural resources
and has made a legally binding
agreement with China.
That shouldn't come as a surprise to you.
[Mikkel] And then there is this matter
of her son and that pig transporting.
How much would you say
this is affecting her?
It affects her a lot more than you think.
Someone has made wild allegations
that they are the actions
of a neglected child,
and that Nyborg is a bad mother.
The claims are completely unreasonable,
but it is something that
Nyborg has to nip in the bud.
Can we force Greenland
out of the agreement
if you call it a matter of foreign
and security policy?
-[Rasmus] They will go ballistic.
-But is it theoretically possible?
[sighs] I'll put legal on it.
Maybe you can talk to
the Minister of Justice.
He could probably also help you,
but you might not have much goodwill left.
Rasmus, you always act
like I'm insulting you.
I'm not insulted, I just have to say
that once again
you're getting close to setting yourself
and the ministry in a bad light.
[Mikkel] Nyborg will actually be appearing
on Denmark Today this evening
here on TV1.
And we rarely get to see Nyborg
on a soft couch in a relaxed setting.
No, and that emphasises
how tarnished her image has become.
[Katrine] She's well aware
that she simply has to show everybody
that she is still
the Birgitte Nyborg they once knew.
[Mikkel] But is she?
We'll probably find out tonight.
We will find out tonight.
Thanks very much, Katrine Fønsmark.
-Thank you.
-And now for the news in brief.
The leader of the opposition
in Ukraine has stated…
[Magnus] Thank you.
I guess I'm too old
to let my mum speak on my behalf anyway.
-[Birgitte] I'm so glad you came.
-You can come in now.
-Thanks.
-And, Mum, by the way…
-I quit my political science studies.
-What?
Yeah. I don't want to talk about it now.
Let's go in and smile together on TV.
Holy shit.
And you're telling me right now?
Aren't you the little politician?
I learnt from the best.
[host] So, Magnus, when you look back
on that day and its consequences,
is there anything you regret?
CLIMATE ACTIVIST
Of course I regret, er,
some innocent pigs suffered
and had to be put down,
but that doesn't absolve the pig industry
from its responsibility.
[host] And how about you, Birgitte Nyborg?
Has this case damaged you politically?
I would like to turn your question
upside down and ask instead
if this has happened because Magnus
has grown up in a political home.
[Birgitte] As a mother, I've raised
my kids to believe it's important
to have an opinion about the world.
To believe that you can change it
to something better.
I've no doubt that Magnus
and his friends wanted to do that
with their actions,
so we've talked about
the methods to use in politics.
Right, Magnus?
Mm, yeah. And here the means were wrong.
Was that so terrible?
[chuckles] No.
I actually thought…
I actually thought it was pretty cool.
I mean,
it was actually the first time I was on TV
where they actually wanted to talk to me
and wanted to hear what I had to say.
-So I thought it was cool.
-What you said was so good.
You put the matter to rest
in good way. You're good.
Thanks, Mum.
[phone chimes]
From: Michael Laugesen
Great! You seemed sincere!
Why did Michael Laugesen just text?
Does he have an opinion
on what we were just doing?
I'm talking to him, yeah?
He actually has a very sharp
analytical mind.
-You're working with him.
-No.
-Did you hire him?
-I don't think you understand that I--
He wrecked our family!
He wrote about you and Dad's divorce
in the worst ways possible.
I mean, he…
he wrote about Laura when she sick.
He made people rummage
through our fucking garbage
to find out what medicine she used.
I'm happy to explain this,
but you'll have to listen.
Was it his idea that the two of us
appeared on Today's Denmark?
You just used me.
Who are you?
Magnus, I'm in a very difficult situation,
and in my defence--
I want to get out.
Will you please stop the car!
Will you please
stop the car now! Thank you!
[door handle clunking]
Majken, the child safety lock.
[Magnus] Come on!
[departing footsteps]
It's okay. He'll come round.
He just needs to let off steam.
-[Majken] Shall we?
-Yeah, just keep driving.
[pensive ambient music playing]
[knock on door]
Ah, yes. I don't know.
I haven't been able
to reach her this morning, so…
No, me neither. [sighs]
That's why… That's why I'm here, you know?
Maybe you want to wait in here
while I figure out where she is?
She must be here soon
because TV1 is coming in half an hour.
Okay.
Er…
I think maybe…
Yeah. Okay. Erm…
I'll take it from here.
Have you slept here tonight?
Yeah. I don't sleep much these days.
No. Magnus came over
to my place last night.
Yeah.
We had a bit of an argument yesterday,
Magnus and I.
[Philip murmurs]
I tried calling him.
[yawns] Several times.
But he won't pick up.
-I really, really want to talk to him.
-I will let him know.
Did you know he dropped out
of his political science studies?
Mm-hmm.
But he really liked it, didn't he?
Yeah, yeah, he was, but, erm…
What?
-No, nothing.
-Come on. What did he say?
-He didn't say anything that--
-What did he say?
He said
that he's afraid to end up like you.
Well, good luck with that.
He's already just like me.
-[knocking]
-[Birgitte] Yeah?
Sorry, but TV1 are here. They've asked
if you can be ready a bit earlier?
Sure. Give me five minutes.
It's alright, he'll come round.
-He'll be okay. Right, Philip?
-Yeah.
Now I have to work.
I completely understand the US reluctance
to a Chinese presence in Greenland.
However, I'm convinced that we can
make ends meet in this matter.
China has reassured me several times
that they only have peaceful
business intentions.
[man 1, over radio]
Thule Air Base, this is Dark Star.
We have an unidentified flying object
westbound over Northeast Greenland.
[birds squawking]
Can you confirm
that this is one of yours? Over.
[man 2] Negative. Cannot confirm.
Have you tried contacting it? Over.
[man 1] We have tried,
but they aren't responding.
[booming]
[theme music playing]
Subtitle translation by:
Helle Kaiser-Nielsen
[ominous ambient music playing]
"LET CHINA SLEEP, FOR WHEN SHE WAKENS,
THE WORLD WILL TREMBLE"
- NAPOLEON BONAPARTE
Sweetie, have you seen my keys?
[yawns]
[sighs]
-Are you going to class?
-Mm-mm.
Sweetie, can we agree that you put
your dirty clothes in the laundry basket?
-They're everywhere.
-Mm?
I expect to be home at around seven.
We can have dinner?
Sweetie?
[murmurs]
Thanks. Bye.
[Oliver] The Greenlandic delegation
will be at the Foreign Ministry at 11.
We will continue where we left off.
And then there is your quote for Børsen.
"I think Denmark succeeds
in doing business with China
while at the same time having
a vehement, critical dialogue
about human rights."
I don't like "vehement, critical dialogue"
and neither will the Chinese.
We can turn it around and call it
a "positive, comma, critical dialogue"?
-That way we talk about it as a plus.
-Yeah, that's good.
And then, "human rights
among other things".
[Oliver murmurs]
-Have you seen this?
-Yes, I've seen it.
MORE PIGS PUT TO SLEEP
[sizzling]
-Morning.
-Hi.
My goodness, you have been busy.
Yeah. [chuckles]
-Okay, er, juice?
-Yes, thanks.
-Yeah.
-[light laugh]
You're reading The Great Sled Journey.
I thought you'd read it.
I have. It's well worth reading again.
[chuckles]
Here you go.
Thanks.
-I enjoyed last night.
-So did I.
[phone ringing]
[Asger clears throat]
It's… It's Birgitte.
Well, answer it.
-Good morning.
-Good morning. I enjoyed last night.
[Asger] Yeah, me too.
I know I was a bit harsh towards
the Greenlandic delegation yesterday,
but we'll make that right today.
We'll treat them to a really nice lunch,
and then we'll land a deal.
Hello?
Yeah. Sorry, I'm here. Yeah… Er…
I just got a, er… just got a text
from Emmy Rasmussen.
Erm…
[Asger] Hans has gone back to Greenland.
-What?
-Yeah.
So the negotiations
have officially broken down.
You have to go up there
and make it right, Asger.
Get on the first plane to Greenland.
Make Hans come round and make sure
he doesn't speak to China alone.
Yep. Got that.
Hans has gone back to Greenland.
This is hell.
When did he leave?
Last night. I didn't see it until now.
[sighs]
-I have to get up there immediately.
-Yeah. Me too.
We won't get to enjoy that nice breakfast.
But thanks.
Maybe next time.
Yeah. Maybe.
Er… do you want to be the one
to inform Rasmus about the talks…?
From: Michael Laugesen -
Behind Nordea Bank in 7 mins?
I have to meet someone first.
Who are you meeting?
Er, Majken?
Can you just let me off here?
I'll make my own way to the ministry.
[theme music playing]
Oliver? I was just told
that Hans has gone back.
-What happened? When did you find out?
-Asger called when we were in the car.
-Where's the minister?
-She has a private meeting.
It's not in her calendar.
-She made the appointment herself.
-That's a no-go.
-You have to control your minister.
-Yeah.
And it's a problem that Hans
has gone back to Greenland.
-Nina, get me Lars and Claus from legal.
-Yeah.
-We need to get hold of Asger.
-He's on his way to the airport.
-Then get his deputy up here.
-This is Nina Estrup.
Can you and Claus come up here right away?
-[Rasmus] Notify the Treasury.
-The Treasury?
I'll handle that.
And I'll inform Niels Erik
in the PM's office right away.
Oh, he's gonna kill me.
This is Oliver Hjorth
from the minister's office.
Yes, hello, this is Nina Estrup
from the Foreign Ministry.
Hi, Niels Erik.
So, we have a slight problem.
Katrine, you have to see
what we got from Greenland.
-I mean…
-[Dan] I've only started editing.
It has to go online this afternoon.
[reporter] The Greenlandic Minister
for Natural Resources, Hans Eliassen,
yesterday left the negotiations
with Denmark on potential oil revenues.
This morning Hans Eliassen
received representatives
from the Chinese group Qingxing Enterprise
which bought into the oil company.
China calls itself "a near-Arctic state"
to underscore its interests in the Arctic.
And, Hans Eliassen,
why did you choose to leave
the negotiations with Birgitte Nyborg?
It seems like Nyborg needed to read up
on the Greenlandic Home Rule Act.
Greenland has regained control
of its resources,
but is still dealing with Copenhagen
and a right to set the agenda.
[reporter] Does that happen
often in dialogue with Denmark?
Yes, and not only regarding
natural resources.
Nyborg is really going to have to answer
to the Americans
when they see the Chinese
on the inland ice.
Oh yeah, and to the Prime Minister.
It's more fuel to the fire.
[Mikkel] There's unrest in the party.
I mean, Nyborg's popularity has fallen
tremendously in the latest polls.
She started out as the most
trustworthy politician in the government.
A COSTLY U-TURN
[Mikkel] Now she's near the bottom.
I read this morning that summer is coming.
That came as quite a surprise.
Would you believe me if I told you
that I never cared which season it is?
Yeah. I believe you.
But we didn't meet to talk
about the weather, did we?
Your approval rating is terrible.
Your support base is crumbling.
The negotiations with Greenland
could end up as an international crisis.
And your boss doesn't seem
to be lacking excuses to fire you.
-Like she fired you?
-No, I think that was your doing.
First of all, we have to create
sympathy towards you.
And that begins on social media.
Who the hell is running your Instagram,
Facebook and Twitter profile?
-I run them myself.
-That's goddamn hopeless.
And it ends now.
Your Insta's shit.
There are only pictures of you
shaking hands with boring people.
-Like the German chancellor?
-Yes. That was an official picture.
Selfies are much better.
It's called "social media"
because you need to interact
with your followers.
Look at Signe Kragh.
She bloody well knows what she's doing.
Here is our sweet Signe
having a cup of coffee on a bad day.
"Handball girl Signe congratulates
the international
women's team on their victory."
Here is Signe's cat on a sheepskin rug.
-I mean, that's…
-Sweet Signe is baking a cake.
I don't have time to bake a cake.
I'm working.
Then make time.
It's all about building a brand.
Yours is 12 years old.
Something new comes along all the time.
You know what?
I just hate to see politicians
prostitute their private lives
to market themselves.
What were you doing when you
rode your bike to work as PM?
You knew perfectly well
what you were doing back then.
Now you're just slacking.
There is a difference between
riding a bike in public
and staging your private life.
By the way, you left out something
when you were listing my problems,
which is that my son hijacked
a pig transporter
and that several of the pigs
had to be put down afterwards,
so I'm also the mother
of an animal abuser.
That's because it's not a problem.
It could be your salvation.
Shouldn't we do a segment on Nyborg
where we show the pressure she's under?
Her waning popularity.
We'd need to get someone in
who knows her well.
[murmurs]
How about Kasper Juul?
That's an excellent idea.
Or is that too personal?
No, no, it's fine.
But he's in London now.
He's only in Denmark every fourth weekend.
And not the upcoming weekend,
so says the mother of his child.
How about you, Katrine?
-You've been Nyborg's special adviser.
-That's a good idea.
No, I don't think I should appear
on screen now.
Well, as long as you're just appearing
as an expert, it's not problematic.
-[Narciza] Hi there.
-[Torben] Hi.
[Pia] I agree completely with Torben.
Katrine, you can easily do it.
Okay. I think we should get
someone else to do it,
but if we can't find someone, I'll do it.
And the Chinese ambassador
has just agreed to come on tonight at 9:30
and that's your show, Narciza.
Well, cool. I've got lots
I'd like to discuss with China.
As long as we all agree
that the topic this time is China's
business interests in Greenland.
-Okay?
-Yeah.
FACEBOOK: YOU WERE TAGGED IN A POST
-Okay, let me just…
-[Pia] Yep.
FØNSMARK - TV1 TYRANT, NOT A LEADER
Facebook: Fønsmark, go home.
Let the grown-ups work.
Facebook: Power-hungry bitch!
Where the hell have you been?
The PM's office is furious
the negotiations have collapsed.
We'll talk about it in private.
TV1 called. Hans Eliassen has made
a statement about talks breaking down.
-They want a comment in 10 minutes.
-Fine. Arrange it in the conference room.
-And then--
-Not now.
How can you make a statement
without speaking to the PM first?
I have to.
Hans can't have all the coverage.
Hans talked to the press
because this ministry messed up.
It was very unprofessional, Birgitte.
We can expect the PM's office
to take back the handling of this matter.
You and I aren't playing
by the same rules.
-You said that, by the way.
-[sighs]
You yelled at the Greenlandic delegation.
This will be a shitstorm in the press.
Yes, but to a good politician
a shitstorm can sometimes
be better than no coverage at all.
This will take 5-7 minutes,
and then we have to…
-[Birgitte] Hi.
-Hi. Hi.
-[phone rings]
-Birgitte, have a look at this.
You'll be on after this interview
with Hans Eliassen.
[interviewer] Why did you choose to leave
the negotiations with Nyborg?
[Hans] Not just about natural resources.
For instance I believe that only Greenland
should negotiate and sign agreements
in the Arctic Council.
Greenland is in the Arctic,
not Denmark, after all.
-Okay.
-Okay? Super.
[Benjamin] Yes, it's rolling there.
Birgitte Nyborg, is the relationship
with Greenland at all icy?
It most certainly isn't.
Hans Eliassen is the leader of a party
fighting for independence from Denmark,
and he is very good at advancing
his political agenda
by distancing himself from us.
It's just politics.
Have you consulted
with the Prime Minister?
Anything else would be unprofessional.
As soon as we've any news,
we'll let you know.
-Thanks.
-Thank you.
-Take care.
-Thanks.
Birgitte, the Prime Minister
is trying to get hold of you.
Yes, I can see that.
Rasmus says he's moved your appointments,
so we can go there right away.
[Oliver] That is a beautiful
Instagram post you made.
Nice picture.
"Squinting at the sun.
May is the most beautiful month."
"Remember to notice that."
Got 672 likes and 1,000 new followers.
-You haven't bought them, have you?
-Bought?
Didn't know you could do that.
The Prime Minister will see you now.
Let me start by saying that I'm sorry
about your son and the pig transporter.
Do let me know if you need some time off.
No, thank you, I don't.
I'm just a bit worried when Greenland
walks out of your negotiations
because you'd apparently
been yelling at them.
It's not unusual
for feelings to run high in politics.
But we don't shout
in this government, Birgitte.
You're constantly making statements
to the media without informing me
even though you claimed on TV1
that I had been informed.
As I recall, it wasn't long ago
that you told me
that this matter was mine
and mine alone to solve,
and that I was standing alone
on an ice floe.
Why do you want to stand
on it there with me now?
Because the world's two largest economies,
the USA and China,
have become involved
and are on the attack.
And because you proved a long time ago
that you're not a team player.
I'm sure you know more
about handball than me,
but as far as I know
there is only one goalkeeper.
You will inform your boss!
Is that understood?
[scoffs]
[sharp inhale] This won't do.
The two of us like this, it… won't do.
No.
And the press knows it
and are trying to expose it.
-[sighs]
-But we won't allow them to do it.
Cos we're not unprofessional.
So what do you think we should do?
I'm not the prime minister.
But if were, I think I might suggest
to my foreign minister
that we hold a joint press conference
about the entire matter
here in the Prime Minister's office.
And we could concede the right
to Greenland that from now on
they will speak first
in the Arctic Council
and sign their own agreements,
as well as being featured
on all official photos.
That suggestion
should come from you, of course.
Because that way we will show,
at the same time, that you are the boss
and that I'm a team player.
It was announced today
that the company behind the potentially
considerable oil find in Greenland,
which is a part of Denmark,
now has Chinese owners.
And just moments ago,
Secretary of State Ted Wayne
offered the first official comment
from the government.
We're very concerned about China
now being involved
in critical infrastructure in Greenland.
It's something we'll have to discuss
with our closest ally, Denmark.
[newsreader] Global News
will be following the situation closely.
-For background and further--
-[TV switches off]
[phone chimes]
Facebook: Stuck-up snot-shovel!
Facebook: Total control freak
Facebook: When she was young, she was hot
Fucked her way to the top?
Have you made any comments to that story?
The story about me
and the Ekspres on Facebook?
No, I've spoken to a friend, but…
Is that friend also a journalist?
Who might have spoken
to other friends who are journalists?
And suddenly the rumours are swirling?
It's… Well, I can't control Facebook.
-[scoffs] No. You can't.
-[sets phone down]
But the two of us can agree
that from now on
you don't talk to journalists.
We're closing it now.
You will start no more stories.
Yeah. Sure. That's fine.
Thank you. Have a good show.
[indistinct chatter]
Are you okay?
-No. You're a bit of a disturbance.
-A disturbance?
Yeah. But…
-[laughs]
-So are you.
I usually get all doped up when I fly.
-But because I was with you I forgot to.
-Mm.
-It's a big deal.
-[Emmy chuckles]
[man] Emmy, hi.
-Hi.
-Hi.
What are you doing here?
I wanted to surprise you.
-Er…
-Excuse me. I'm Aqqaluk.
I'm Emmy's husband.
Oh, okay. Hi. Hi. Asger.
Where are you going? Do you want to…?
We can give you a ride to the hotel.
Er… No, no, no, you don't have to do that.
There's a car coming.
CEC are sending a car.
I'll just get a ride with that.
It's no trouble at all.
No, it's okay. I'll just wait.
Thank you though. Thank you.
Let's just go. See you later, Asger.
Yeah, see you later.
-Yeah. Nice to meet you. Bye.
-[Aqqaluk] Bye.
[car engine starts]
[sombre string music playing]
[car door closes]
Do you remember Malik?
The guy who used to drive for you?
He was a young Greenlandic guy
who, er, just died.
Oh, right.
I remember him.
Very sad.
But I think suicides,
it's quite common up here.
Right.
[dishes clattering]
Okay… "Usually I wouldn't even take part
in a heated debate like this
where my character is being discussed."
"And especially not when the rhetoric
is so vociferous and unqualified…."
I can't sleep. Gustav is making noise.
[Søren] Gustav!
-No more screen time!
-He'll stop now, honey.
[Søren] Past nine.
Go to bed. I'll check on you in a bit.
[Søren] She can hear everything
through that shitty drywall.
She needs a real room for herself.
I know. The contractor is coming
tomorrow and he have a look at it.
[Narciza] …the Chinese ambassador
to Denmark, Tao Ying.
-Mr Tao, welcome.
-Thank you.
-China has become a majority partner…
-Hey.
[Søren] Hm?
Will you read my comments
and tell me what you think?
…unusual that Denmark agreed
to collaborate with a country like China
-in such a manner?
-China and Denmark
have signed a strategic
partnership agreement,
and the oil in Greenland
should be considered a continuation
of our excellent collaboration.
But, many people in the West
can't really imagine
collaborating with the Chinese
without also having a critical view
on human rights issues.
I thought we were going
to talk about the oil in Greenland.
-When we talk about the oil…
-I thought that too.
…we're also talking about Greenland,
and consequently Denmark,
doing business with a country
that persecutes people with other views.
For example,
a new Amnesty International
report recently revealed
that Muslims are being rounded up
in special camps
where they have to undergo re-education
because of their religious beliefs.
Shut the fuck up, Narciza.
[Narciza] It goes on to say that torture
is being used to achieve these goals.
[Tao Ying] It's fake news.
I have to stress that you invited me here
to talk about Chinese ambitions
in relation to the Greenlandic oil--
-But when we talk about collaboration…
-Shut up!
…between Denmark and China, we can't
really ignore the fact that China--
I don't believe it.
That was exactly what I said not to do.
Did you read my comments?
Yes. Y-Yeah, I don't think
you should publish them.
I mean, I think you should
rise above the noise.
This is private.
That, on the other hand, that is not okay.
She's right that they, erm,
violate human rights again and again,
but that wasn't what
the interview was about.
That right there will come home
to roost for you as the head of news.
I'd react to that.
And I would like to do that,
but every single time I say something
to Narciza she does the opposite.
Honey.
What did you want to do
when you took the job?
I want us to be the best.
Yeah.
-That wasn't the best.
-No, it wasn't.
And I have to tell her that.
Yeah.
[Michael] Birgitte, we must use
the Magnus story.
I talked to Denmark Today. They'd like to
see both of you in the studio tomorrow.
This is the most
important thing for you now.
I'm pretty sure that Denmark's
relations with the US and China
are a bit more important.
There are no emotions in that.
There are emotions in your son,
and you're good at emotions.
Did you see my post for today?
Bam! Emotions.
1,400 likes.
You've never gotten that many before.
Just wait, you will soon be
all of Denmark's favourite Birgitte again.
But tell me,
why do we worry so much about the US
when we gain more
from having a close relation to China?
Because China isn't a democracy.
Erm, they don't have a free press,
they persecute dissenters.
What do you want me to say?
Did you know that
what comes out of a dog is really gross?
No. I didn't know you had a dog.
No, it's not my dog. I'm just seeing
someone who has one of those chihuahuas.
Half dog, half rat.
But consider the thing about China.
Can't you see the double standard
in Denmark and Europe
trading with them more than ever before
but China can't even set their foot
in Greenland before the US freaks out?
It doesn't make sense.
Why not just welcome China to Greenland?
Because it's a completely absurd thought.
Yes, and that's why you hired me, right?
To say the crazy and inappropriate things,
such as making friends
with a tyrannical state
or inviting your kids on TV.
Birgitte, this is a golden opportunity.
People will love to see you
with your hair down and be Magnus' mum.
Michael, we're not talking
about my children.
It will work. I promise.
-I have to go now.
-But think about it.
-Magnus?
-[murmurs]
Hi, Mum.
[murmurs] Were you on the phone?
It was just work.
[inhales] Honey, I was thinking, erm…
Are you paying attention
to how much your involvement
in that pig transporter
is being discussed in the press?
Hmm. You've always taught me
you don't have to worry
too much about the press.
No, at times I've said
you shouldn't worry too much about them.
This isn't one of them.
Mum,
what's your agenda?
That you use the attention
you obviously have right now
to do something reasonable.
Like apologising for what happened.
-That you and I will go on TV and say--
-What?
Er, wait a minute.
The two of us on Denmark Today
where you apologise for breaking the law
and for 17 pigs dying because of it.
Not gonna happen
They would've died anyway.
-Magnus.
-Mum, no.
[phone ringing]
Well, then I'll have to do it by myself
and apologise on your behalf.
No, you're not apologising on my behalf.
Hi, Alba.
No, no. No, I'm just arguing with Mum.
[female host] And that was the news
read and edited by Anja Kornmod.
[male host] And we're back again
with CPH Morning.
Oh my, the Nyborg family is getting flack
for their pigheaded actions.
[female host]
We're of course talking about
the matter of the Foreign Minister's
21-year-old son
who got no fewer than 17
cute little piglets put down
prompting a press scandal.
[male host] Later we will be joined
by the chairwoman for Animal Protection
who fiercely disapproves
of both the action and of Nyborg's son.
[Oliver] Ready for the press
conference with the PM?
-[Birgitte] Yep.
-The car is downstairs.
No coat. It's one of those days.
-The press department has prepared notes.
-She doesn't need them.
Birgitte, Washington wants to see you
and have a friendly word with you.
Okay? When's my flight?
Fortunately you're only going to Germany.
Wayne is at the G7 meeting.
We've chartered a plane
so you can get quickly back and forth.
It leaves at 1 p.m.
and the meeting is at 3:00.
What if I can't be there until 4:00?
This is the United States.
Yes, but if we're just following orders,
we'll have surrendered from the start.
Listen, the US is still the world's
most powerful country
and has been our closest ally
for the last 70 years.
We don't question that
on a random Wednesday
just because we feel like it.
Thanks, Rasmus.
I'll let the world press know.
[lift bell chimes]
[lift door closes]
Twitter: Fønsmark flouts maternity rules.
Shocking to hear how employees' rights
in the news department are being ignored.
Good morning.
Good morning.
Narciza went all-out yesterday. [chuckles]
I'll say.
I'll give her a few notes on that.
-Yeah.
-Yeah.
Have you heard any… rumours
or any other weird things
about maternity leave?
I saw this post on Facebook.
Er, look, here it says…
Er… "Fønsmark flouts maternity rules."
"Shocking to hear how
employees' rights in the news department
are being ignored."
Yes, but isn't that just people talking?
About what?
Well… [sighs]
I think that somebody overheard
you tell Mie that you didn't think
it was a good idea to get pregnant.
I've never said that.
[sharp inhale]
Okay, back when I…
Erm, I mean, yeah, okay, yeah…
But that wasn't what I said… [sighs] Fuck.
I just wanted her to go to Greenland
because she's good.
I didn't mean that I wanted to change
the fucking rules for maternity leave.
But your words carry more weight
now that you're the boss.
-That's the way it is.
-Oh, this is insane.
-Okay. Yeah. I'll talk to her.
-Yes.
-We're starting.
-Be there in a minute.
Good. Fine.
To: Mie Lorentzen
Dear Mie. Saw a strange story on Twitter.
Let's keep it in-house.
Call me, please? xx
Yep. Before we start, er, Katrine has
a few remarks to the 9:30 yesterday.
Yeah. Erm… But it's actually
mostly to Narciza
so maybe the two of us
should just take two minutes?
[Pia] Okay. Good. Then we'll start.
My colleagues can hear
what you have to say, Katrine.
Yeah. Erm…
Your interview yesterday with
the Chinese ambassador was problematic
because you digressed from the topic
to suddenly stress a point
about human rights
which wasn't the point
of the interview at all.
-So what was the point of the interview?
-We agreed on that yesterday, right?
The oil in Greenland.
We would like to understand
China's business ambitions
in relation to what
the Americans are worrying about.
So you don't think it's unsettling
that the Chinese
send Muslims to re-education camps?
Well, Amnesty's newest report
documents the use of torture.
We are talking electroshock therapy
and physical restraints.
Or are we only interested
in portraying Muslims
as terrorists, fugitives
or criminal immigrants?
[murmurs]
-I don't agree that's what we're doing.
-[phone chimes]
The point is, this wasn't
what we invited him in to talk about.
And if you break the agreement
with the guest--
Hello? Are you paying attention?
If you break the agreement with the guest,
you might get a bad interview,
which you did.
No. Sorry, but aren't we waiving the right
to do critical journalism?
I'm serious.
If we always toe the line
and only have people in the studio
that have agreed to all
the questions and answers ahead of time,
aren't we just microphone holders
for a rehearsed reality?
Listen. You will have to learn
to take criticism
without turning it into a matter
of whether or not
we are killing critical journalism.
You did a bad interview.
There are many reasons
to worry about China.
But I can assure you
that the Americans aren't worried
with regards to Greenland
because of Muslim re-education camps.
It's about the Thule Air Base,
American geopolitical interests
and the expansive
business strategy of the Chinese.
And that was what you should have
asked the ambassador about.
-Okay, if we can move on--
-So you're giving me a gag order?
Just like Mie?
Excuse--
Everyone knows what
what you told her about maternity leave.
That's totally out of order.
Okay, so you two talk?
That message was from Mie?
Yes, we talk.
Aren't we allowed to do that?
Is that something you want to control?
-Stop. You're way out of line.
-[Pia] We have a show we need to plan.
I apologise to the rest of you.
You, come with me.
Yeah.
I mean, what kind of TV station is this?
[Dan] What's our opening segment?
We can expect to see a rising
oil consumption in the coming years
while also wanting to accelerate
the green innovation in Denmark.
Thank you to the Foreign Minister.
And now we will open up for questions.
I can see that Politiken are first up.
This is for the Foreign Minister.
When we hear that the American
Foreign Minister is very critical
about the Chinese
being let in to Greenland,
how can you defend that partnership?
Denmark and the US are strong allies
with regards to things such as NATO,
but we don't believe that will prevent us
from cooperating with China on oil.
And by the way, China has overtaken the US
as the EU's primary trade partner.
-And TV1?
-This is also for the Foreign Minister.
You come across
as very much in agreement on oil,
but the fact is the New Democrats
campaigned on even more ambitious goals
for climate than the Labour Party.
Were you forced to fall into line,
Birgitte Nyborg,
when you saw how much money
was on the line?
Oh, I don't know.
Signe, what do you think?
Was I forced to fall into line?
I don't know if anybody believes
that you can force
-Birgitte Nyborg to fall into line.
-[laughter]
We don't force people in this government.
We discuss what is best for Denmark.
[Benjamin] We are in the PM's office,
but it's mainly the Foreign Minister
talking about the matter.
Which of you is leading the negotiations?
That has to be a question
for the Prime Minister.
I actually think this press conference
reflects our collaboration well.
For this government,
team effort is the important thing.
[Signe] And Ekspres has a question.
[woman] Do you think it will have
any consequences for your political career
that your son could go to jail
because of pig transportation?
I don't think Ekspres read the invitation
for this press conference,
so let's take another question instead.
-[clamouring]
-I think that will be all for today.
-Thanks.
-Thanks.
It's our pleasure
to fly you to Munich today.
-We'll take off in about five minutes.
-Thanks very much.
[Oliver] Oliver Hjorth. Yes.
Just a moment,
I'll check if she's available.
Do you have five minutes
for the Chinese ambassador?
This is Birgitte Nyborg.
[Tao Ying] Beijing is very pleased with
the new and strengthened collaboration
regarding Greenland,
which Denmark can also see
many potential advantages in.
Absolutely, Mr Ambassador.
And also, I want to wish you
a very good meeting
with the American Foreign Minister.
Thank you.
And I hope the ambassador bears in mind
that the United States have been
an ally of Denmark for many, many years.
I also hope that you,
Madam Minister, remembers
that China provided you
personally with some information
that I believe was
of considerable importance
in a recent meeting
in the Foreign Policy Committee.
I'll do whatever I can.
-Thank you very much, Madam Minister.
-Yeah. Thank you.
What did he want?
To remind Denmark
who our true friends are.
-[plane engine starts]
-[call button chimes]
[pilot, over PA]
Cabin crew, flight ready and crosscheck.
Have you heard that Kragh
will now approve all the press releases
from every ministry
before they're sent out?
I mean, that's nuts.
Even though I can kind of see
the advantage of being able to control
what your employees
run around saying in public.
I can't comprehend her reaction
to my reasonable criticism.
-I agree. It was a bad interview.
-It got completely out of hand.
I gave her a warning,
and now I'm notifying HR.
I'm just trying to get this department
to make the best news.
But if this is what you're faced with,
it's bloody impossible.
The 1st of March 2016.
-What's that?
-The day I stopped as head of news.
The same day I stopped
officially having any opinion
on how I thought employees
ought to behave.
And you know what?
My blood pressure decreased.
My sleep rhythm got better.
My mood. My marriage.
I could remember my own children
and almost remember how old they were.
You and I, we can talk
about almost anything else.
But what you're doing right now… Huh?
Having all these thoughts about
how you want your employees
in this department to behave…
Katrine, in a way,
that's for you and you alone.
I can't help you.
But you have a nice business card.
There are seven figures on your paycheque.
I moved to the suburbs. [chuckles]
And bought a house of fun.
The most important thing is that…
I'm your friend.
I will always be that.
Okay?
[drills whirring]
[Hans] So we'll be up and running
within two weeks' time.
So there will be a lot more activity
within the coming weeks.
Hans.
[truck doors closing]
-Can you excuse me for a moment?
-[woman] Sure, see you later.
We've been trying to reach you.
Well, it's just to show
that they're part of this thing.
My boss, who's also your boss,
would like to speak to you.
You leave the negotiations,
go home without informing me
and you talk to the press
without coordinating with Naalakkersuisut.
It's just politics.
I'm not from the same party
as our Premier.
She wants to be closer
to Copenhagen than I do.
-Hello.
-[woman] Nice to meet you.
Asger Holm Kirkegaard, acting ambassador.
-Welcome, Ambassador.
-Thank you.
On behalf of Qingxing Enterprises,
allow me to convey to you
how much we're looking forward
to the collaborations.
As are we. And the…
And the Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs
sends her warmest regards.
Hans, once again I'm sorry
about how the meeting in Copenhagen ended.
Please, don't mention it.
We'll move forward now.
Ms Li will give us an update. Please.
We've already done a lot of work
with Hans Eliassen's department,
and I'm sure you will be pleased to hear
that the test drillings are so promising
that the plans for a refinery
will be realised.
And it will be quite vital
that we have a shipping port constructed
that can accommodate the big tankers.
The bay just out here
is unfortunately too shallow,
but we've found
a suitable location further up north
where we can build a harbour
of considerable size.
Hi, Birgitte. This is Asger.
Will you please call
when you hear this message?
We have some new challenges
with the Chinese…
-[Emmy] Asger!
-…which we will have to…
Erm…
I think you should find out
who has the right to use the area
where the Chinese want
to build the harbour.
[sombre ambient music playing]
[door opens, closes]
You asked for a meeting?
-Yeah.
-[door closes]
This, er, is Lone Jacobsen from HR.
I believe you know each other.
I thought… [clears throat]
…it would be a good idea
for Lone to join us. Erm…
According to your contract,
you have to support the editorial line
laid out by management.
Yeah. What's this about?
So it won't do
that you can't take criticism
and won't accept my authority,
or that after a verbal warning
you continue to criticise this station
through the media.
I'VE BEEN GAGGED
You told me I wasn't allowed
to make any comment.
-That was all I said.
-"No comment" means saying nothing.
That is yet another attack, hm?
Why are HR here?
Because I have a responsibility
to the entire team.
Our conflict has been building
for a very long time.
You are a very good anchor. You are.
I want you to know that. I think you are.
But you keep questioning my authority,
even when the decision is mine to make.
I'm your boss, and I'm also hired
to lead the entire department.
And this has gotten to a point
where it affects the editorial climate.
So I'm afraid that you cannot stay on
as news anchor in this department.
Excuse-- What's going on?
[Lone] When there are
interpersonal differences this severe
the decision sits with the head of news.
I have been the highest profile anchor
for the last three years!
And for good reason. I, er…
It's either your way
or the highway, isn't it?
I actually think
you handled that really well.
Thank you.
Danke.
[woman] The American Foreign Minister
will be ready in a moment.
Just let me know if there is
anything that you need.
Thanks very much.
I'VE BEEN GAGGED
MAGNUS NYBORG - KILLED 17 PIGS:
"I LOVE ANIMALS"
To: Magnus Nyborg
I was sorry to read the story
[phone keyboard clacking]
Hello there, Birgitte.
It's good to finally meet you.
It's a pleasure.
It's great that you come
with such short notice.
-Why don't we go talk to the press first?
-What do you mean?
We've just gathered
a few reporters next door
so that we can give a joint statement.
I really don't see
how we can give a joint statement
when we haven't even talked yet.
[takes deep breath] Of course.
It's lovely to meet
an experienced colleague.
There are so many rookies.
Well then, let's take a walk.
My grandfather was here in '45
with Patton's Third Army to kill Germans.
Now they're the ones protecting us.
How 'bout that?
Well, in Denmark, we were very grateful
to your grandfather and the Allies
for their help
in giving us back our freedom.
Anyhow, it just so happened
to be Greenland,
and not least the Thule Air Base,
that ended up bringing us together
and cementing our bond after the war.
And I think we'd all like
that close relationship to continue
to be just as close in the future.
Denmark has no intentions
of altering that relationship.
Pardon me, but the way you spoke of China
during your press conference this morning
definitely came across
like a clear opening.
Well, we can't ignore the fact
that China has legally acquired
the majority of the drilling company.
It's the position of the United States
that the oil industry
is critical infrastructure.
We can't accept
a Chinese presence in an area
that we consider vital
for American geopolitical interests.
I acknowledge that you're engaged
in a trade war with China,
but I hope you can see
the problem in us contesting
binding business agreements based solely
on the other part being Chinese.
[sighs]
Just make it go away, Birgitte.
Pardon me, Ted?
Do you mind snapping a selfie together?
[shutter clicking]
Thank you.
You're welcome.
[Oliver] Did it go well?
[Birgitte] I wouldn't exactly say that.
I just went to the drill site
and met the Chinese group management.
They are certainly not wasting any time.
[Birgitte] And that's a big problem
for the Americans.
The very fact that China owns the company
is certainly a problem for the Americans.
It's not a problem for Hans who just wants
independence for Greenland
no matter how close
he gets to the Chinese.
The best thing would certainly be
if we could slow things down a bit
so the Americans feel we listened to them.
Exactly. Listen.
The Chinese are planning to build
a shipping port further north.
The only problem is that
you cannot own land in Greenland.
[Asger] You can only get
the, er, the right of use to an area.
And who has the right of use?
It's, er, a local fisherman
and whaler called Josva Johansen
who has his whaling cabin on that site.
I thought we might buy ourselves some time
if we can obstruct the construction
of the harbour.
That's an excellent idea.
Get hold of this Josva.
Yeah, I'm trying.
Er, Emmy, er… Emmy Rasmussen,
she's helping me get in touch with him
without involving Hans.
I might be able to go sailing
with him this afternoon.
Sounds good. Bye.
We're still planning on going
straight to Today's Denmark
even though Magnus isn't coming, right?
Yeah. I'll handle it.
And there's a change of clothes
in the car.
-Thanks.
-Hm.
What's going on?
We started half an hour ago.
I've just had an insane day.
I have to go back to the studio soon.
I fired Narciza.
We had this ridiculous argument,
and I had to give her a warning.
-And then HR got involved…
-Because of that interview?
[sighs] I don't know.
There were a thousand things.
-I can't even explain how it all started.
-And now you regret it, is that it?
I don't know. [sighs]
She was really upset.
-Yeah.
-[phone chimes]
But… No, can we just…?
-Yeah, I just have to see this.
-He's only here for…
From: Pia - You need to see this:
Hi, guys.
Er, sorry if I seem a bit flustered.
[chuckles]
But I have just been fired.
So you won't be seeing me
making news here on TV1.
I will miss you. [chuckles] Erm…
And my fantastic colleagues
cos I've really loved going to work here.
I hope to see you again.
Take care out there.
[grumbles] I think it'll be difficult
for me to go below two.
-Two million?
-Yeah. You need a new roof.
Three new wet rooms.
You need all new doors and windows.
Then you want to create an extra room.
Yes, but, er, that's a bit more
than we were thinking, to be honest.
There's no way
this is costing us two million.
I mean, it's not the entire roof
that needs to be changed,
and the former owner renovated
one of the bathrooms.
1.7 or we'll have to find someone else.
And that's including VAT. I just need to…
[departing footsteps]
-[knocking on door]
-Yeah, come in.
[door opens]
Tanja.
Wow, you've got a… you've got a…
[chuckles] Do you like it?
Yeah, yeah. I do, I do. Yeah. Oh my. Wow.
Malik was supposed to get one too.
-I really think it looks good on you.
-Thanks.
Well, I'm really here to pick you up.
-You wanted to meet Josva.
-Yeah, that's right. Yes.
Emmy rang me.
Josva is my grandfather's brother.
The brother of my grandpa, you know?
Yeah. And thank you
for introducing me to him.
No problem.
Well…
Tanja, I assume I'm not supposed
to ask why you're not in school.
Or why you smell a bit like
you've been smoking a joint as well?
-[chuckles] Come on.
-Yeah.
Yeah.
[seagulls squawking]
[drills whirring]
-[Josva] Tanja, is it okay?
-Yeah, it's fine.
-[Josva] Maintain your speed.
-Yep.
Are you alright?
I just have to look
at the horizon, I think.
[Asger] Then I'll be fine.
Thanks. [clears throat]
Josva.
I know that, er…
I know that many
here in Greenland are happy
because oil's been found,
because it might mean that
you can gain independence from Denmark,
and I can understand that.
I can completely understand that.
But I also have to say
that right now, Josva,
I don't think it's Denmark
and Copenhagen you need to fear.
Because, as you know,
there is always a bigger fish out there.
And the Chinese are planning
to build a harbour
where you're hunting
and catching your whales.
And that is why we, Denmark,
need to buy ourselves some time,
or else the Americans will get mad,
and we can't have that.
Furthermore, Josva, I don't think
that it would be good
for your whaling if a big harbour
is built in the middle of it.
Would it?
That's the reason why I'm here right now.
To ask if you, in any way, can say no
if or when the Chinese come around
and ask if they can build that harbour.
You're a good man.
But you're too late.
Hans Eliassen and the Chinese
got here first.
And they paid me…
for permission to build that harbour.
This boat. Three hundred horsepower.
It was a gift.
[ominous instrumental music playing]
[Josva] They're beginning
the construction in 14 days.
It's been hard not to notice
the recent internal conflict
within the New Democrats.
Party leader Birgitte Nyborg
has experienced an increasing
lack of support from her base,
and the turmoil surrounding
the Greenlandic oil…
Hi, Mother-in-law. Turn it up.
One of the people who has known her best
and followed her closely
both as reporter
and as her special adviser
is you, Katrine Fønsmark. Welcome.
Thank you.
-You've worked more closely with Nyborg…
-Go to two here.
-…than practically anyone else.
-Ready one.
What kind of Nyborg
are we experiencing these days?
Well, it is a top politician
under extreme pressure.
And you have to say
that she is partly to blame
for the very difficult situation she's in.
Last week she completely changed her mind
on the climate policy she campaigned on.
And the voters
will react to that, of course.
-[Rasmus] Yeah?
-Asger's attempt to buy us time failed.
Yes, he emailed me.
I told you this would be a problem.
Yes, but I'm not asking you to tell me
"I told you so", am I?
No, but Greenland controls
its own natural resources
and has made a legally binding
agreement with China.
That shouldn't come as a surprise to you.
[Mikkel] And then there is this matter
of her son and that pig transporting.
How much would you say
this is affecting her?
It affects her a lot more than you think.
Someone has made wild allegations
that they are the actions
of a neglected child,
and that Nyborg is a bad mother.
The claims are completely unreasonable,
but it is something that
Nyborg has to nip in the bud.
Can we force Greenland
out of the agreement
if you call it a matter of foreign
and security policy?
-[Rasmus] They will go ballistic.
-But is it theoretically possible?
[sighs] I'll put legal on it.
Maybe you can talk to
the Minister of Justice.
He could probably also help you,
but you might not have much goodwill left.
Rasmus, you always act
like I'm insulting you.
I'm not insulted, I just have to say
that once again
you're getting close to setting yourself
and the ministry in a bad light.
[Mikkel] Nyborg will actually be appearing
on Denmark Today this evening
here on TV1.
And we rarely get to see Nyborg
on a soft couch in a relaxed setting.
No, and that emphasises
how tarnished her image has become.
[Katrine] She's well aware
that she simply has to show everybody
that she is still
the Birgitte Nyborg they once knew.
[Mikkel] But is she?
We'll probably find out tonight.
We will find out tonight.
Thanks very much, Katrine Fønsmark.
-Thank you.
-And now for the news in brief.
The leader of the opposition
in Ukraine has stated…
[Magnus] Thank you.
I guess I'm too old
to let my mum speak on my behalf anyway.
-[Birgitte] I'm so glad you came.
-You can come in now.
-Thanks.
-And, Mum, by the way…
-I quit my political science studies.
-What?
Yeah. I don't want to talk about it now.
Let's go in and smile together on TV.
Holy shit.
And you're telling me right now?
Aren't you the little politician?
I learnt from the best.
[host] So, Magnus, when you look back
on that day and its consequences,
is there anything you regret?
CLIMATE ACTIVIST
Of course I regret, er,
some innocent pigs suffered
and had to be put down,
but that doesn't absolve the pig industry
from its responsibility.
[host] And how about you, Birgitte Nyborg?
Has this case damaged you politically?
I would like to turn your question
upside down and ask instead
if this has happened because Magnus
has grown up in a political home.
[Birgitte] As a mother, I've raised
my kids to believe it's important
to have an opinion about the world.
To believe that you can change it
to something better.
I've no doubt that Magnus
and his friends wanted to do that
with their actions,
so we've talked about
the methods to use in politics.
Right, Magnus?
Mm, yeah. And here the means were wrong.
Was that so terrible?
[chuckles] No.
I actually thought…
I actually thought it was pretty cool.
I mean,
it was actually the first time I was on TV
where they actually wanted to talk to me
and wanted to hear what I had to say.
-So I thought it was cool.
-What you said was so good.
You put the matter to rest
in good way. You're good.
Thanks, Mum.
[phone chimes]
From: Michael Laugesen
Great! You seemed sincere!
Why did Michael Laugesen just text?
Does he have an opinion
on what we were just doing?
I'm talking to him, yeah?
He actually has a very sharp
analytical mind.
-You're working with him.
-No.
-Did you hire him?
-I don't think you understand that I--
He wrecked our family!
He wrote about you and Dad's divorce
in the worst ways possible.
I mean, he…
he wrote about Laura when she sick.
He made people rummage
through our fucking garbage
to find out what medicine she used.
I'm happy to explain this,
but you'll have to listen.
Was it his idea that the two of us
appeared on Today's Denmark?
You just used me.
Who are you?
Magnus, I'm in a very difficult situation,
and in my defence--
I want to get out.
Will you please stop the car!
Will you please
stop the car now! Thank you!
[door handle clunking]
Majken, the child safety lock.
[Magnus] Come on!
[departing footsteps]
It's okay. He'll come round.
He just needs to let off steam.
-[Majken] Shall we?
-Yeah, just keep driving.
[pensive ambient music playing]
[knock on door]
Ah, yes. I don't know.
I haven't been able
to reach her this morning, so…
No, me neither. [sighs]
That's why… That's why I'm here, you know?
Maybe you want to wait in here
while I figure out where she is?
She must be here soon
because TV1 is coming in half an hour.
Okay.
Er…
I think maybe…
Yeah. Okay. Erm…
I'll take it from here.
Have you slept here tonight?
Yeah. I don't sleep much these days.
No. Magnus came over
to my place last night.
Yeah.
We had a bit of an argument yesterday,
Magnus and I.
[Philip murmurs]
I tried calling him.
[yawns] Several times.
But he won't pick up.
-I really, really want to talk to him.
-I will let him know.
Did you know he dropped out
of his political science studies?
Mm-hmm.
But he really liked it, didn't he?
Yeah, yeah, he was, but, erm…
What?
-No, nothing.
-Come on. What did he say?
-He didn't say anything that--
-What did he say?
He said
that he's afraid to end up like you.
Well, good luck with that.
He's already just like me.
-[knocking]
-[Birgitte] Yeah?
Sorry, but TV1 are here. They've asked
if you can be ready a bit earlier?
Sure. Give me five minutes.
It's alright, he'll come round.
-He'll be okay. Right, Philip?
-Yeah.
Now I have to work.
I completely understand the US reluctance
to a Chinese presence in Greenland.
However, I'm convinced that we can
make ends meet in this matter.
China has reassured me several times
that they only have peaceful
business intentions.
[man 1, over radio]
Thule Air Base, this is Dark Star.
We have an unidentified flying object
westbound over Northeast Greenland.
[birds squawking]
Can you confirm
that this is one of yours? Over.
[man 2] Negative. Cannot confirm.
Have you tried contacting it? Over.
[man 1] We have tried,
but they aren't responding.
[booming]
[theme music playing]
Subtitle translation by:
Helle Kaiser-Nielsen