Story Overview

The Danish Girl is a deeply moving love story adapted from David Ebershoff’s novel, inspired by the real lives of Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener. Set in early 20th-century Europe, the film explores identity, devotion, and the emotional cost of self-discovery in a society unprepared for radical change.

The story follows Lili Elbe (Eddie Redmayne), one of the first known transgender women to undergo gender confirmation surgery. What begins as an artistic experiment—posing in women’s clothing for her wife’s paintings—gradually becomes a profound awakening. As Lili’s true identity surfaces, she embarks on a courageous and painful journey to live authentically, despite immense social and medical risks.

At the heart of the film lies Lili’s marriage to artist Gerda Wegener (Alicia Vikander). Their relationship evolves from romantic partnership into something more complex and emotionally demanding, as Gerda struggles to reconcile her love for Lili with the transformation of the person she married. Her unwavering support becomes both an act of love and personal sacrifice.

The Danish Girl is a tender and intimate exploration of gender, love, and identity, portraying how personal truth can challenge societal norms. Through restrained storytelling and emotionally charged performances, the film presents a powerful portrait of courage and the enduring bond between two people navigating uncharted emotional territory.