"Copenhagen Does Not Exist" (original title: "København eksisterer ikke") is a Danish film directed by Aage Rais-Nordentoft, released in 1964. The movie is known for its experimental narrative and existential themes, typical of the Danish New Wave cinema of the 1960s.
The film revolves around a young woman named Ida who goes missing in Copenhagen. As the search for Ida intensifies, the narrative also focuses on Sander, who finds himself interrogated by two men in an empty apartment. This interrogation scene serves as a central point where the themes of identity, reality, and existential crisis are explored.
Throughout the film, the boundaries between reality and imagination blur, reflecting the uncertainty and alienation experienced by the characters. The title itself, "Copenhagen Does Not Exist," hints at the existentialist philosophy that underpins the narrative—questioning the nature of existence and reality.
The film's experimental style includes unconventional storytelling techniques, such as non-linear narrative and surreal imagery, which challenge the viewer to interpret the story in a subjective and introspective manner. The director, Aage Rais-Nordentoft, was influenced by European avant-garde cinema and sought to create a film that provokes philosophical reflection rather than conventional plot-driven entertainment.
Overall, "Copenhagen Does Not Exist" is a thought-provoking exploration of identity, reality, and existential angst, presented through innovative filmmaking techniques and a distinctive Danish New Wave aesthetic.