Mads Mikkelsen, widely recognized for his captivating portrayals of villains in international franchises, recently unveiled his top five movies during a conversation with The Academy. Among the intense, dark selections, he revealed an unexpectedly cheerful favorite, bringing a touch of joy to his list. This disclosure of “Mads Mikkelsen favorite movie revealed” offers fans a candid look into the Danish actor’s cinematic tastes and personal traditions.
Known for roles in major franchises like Indiana Jones, James Bond, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the television series Hannibal, Mikkelsen has cemented his reputation as a go-to antagonist. Despite this characterization, those who explore his Danish work with acclaimed director Thomas Vinterberg discover a different range, including memorable performances in Another Round, After the Wedding, and the gritty Pusher trilogy. These projects showcase a profound versatility, far beyond the shadowy personas he often embodies in Hollywood films.
A Preference for Dark Cinema—Except for One Standout
When discussing his cinematic influences, Mikkelsen listed four notoriously bleak classics: Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver, Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now, the Soviet anti-war feature Come and See, and Dekalog—the Polish religious miniseries. These choices reinforce his affinity for intense storytelling, reflecting the dark ambiance he brings to many of his characters.
However, breaking through these solemn selections appeared a contrasting and uplifting favorite. Mikkelsen revealed,
“Singin’ in the Rain is one of my favourite films,”
and elaborated on the film’s charm and energy. —Mads Mikkelsen, Actor
He continued with high praise for the cast and musical performance:
“Everybody in it is so charming, and the film is so good. The way they sing and dance is astonishing, and, eventually, you find out that Gene Kelly was a perfectionist. He was so ambitious, but it comes across onscreen like they’re all playing a game! I just love it. It makes me smile every time I see it, and I do watch it again once a year, every year. It remains just as charming as ever.”
—Mads Mikkelsen, Actor
The Appeal and Legacy of “Singin’ in the Rain”
Released in 1952, Singin’ in the Rain is regarded not only as a pinnacle among movie musicals but also as one of the greatest films ever made. Co-directed by and starring Gene Kelly, the story captures Hollywood’s difficult transition from silent movies to sound, seen through the experiences of Kelly himself, Donald O’Connor, and Debbie Reynolds. The title number—famously performed by Kelly while battling a high fever—remains an iconic reference point in film history.
Interestingly, Mikkelsen’s admiration for Gene Kelly’s relentless perfectionism shines a light on a less cheerful side of the movie’s production. Behind the scenes, Kelly’s drive for excellence sometimes manifested as harsh treatment of his fellow performers, demonstrating how some stars wielded unchecked power during that era. This backdrop of ambition and pressure stands in stark contrast to the film’s light-hearted atmosphere, once again resonating with Mikkelsen’s tendency to recognize complexities beneath the surface.
Why Mads Mikkelsen’s Favorite Movie Choice Matters
Although the darker elements behind the making of Singin’ in the Rain may overshadow its vibrant exterior, the film endures as a key work in American cinema. For Mikselsen—whose career has often traversed bleak narratives and intense roles—the joy he draws from revisiting this classic year after year highlights his appreciation for layered artistry, charm, and enduring optimism in film. If a performer renowned for exploring humanity’s shadows finds lasting delight in Singin’ in the Rain, it encourages cinema lovers everywhere to revisit this joyful classic and perhaps discover anew the enduring magic that has captivated audiences for decades.
