Mads Mikkelsen has joined the cast of Martin Scorsese’s new film, What Happens at Night, alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence. The project is being co-produced by Apple Original Films, StudioCanal, and Scorsese’s own Sikelia Productions, continuing a collaboration between these companies.
The story, adapted from Peter Cameron’s novel of the same name, follows an unnamed couple portrayed by DiCaprio and Lawrence who travel to a remote European hotel in winter with the hope of adopting a child from an orphanage.
Plot and Character Insights in Upcoming Scorsese Film
The narrative deepens as the wife, who is battling cancer, crosses paths with Brother Emmanuel, a mysterious faith healer played by Mads Mikkelsen. Patricia Clarkson has also joined the ensemble, with additional casting expected. Patrick Marber is adapting the novel’s screenplay, while Scorsese directs and produces. Executive producing duties are managed by Anna Marsh, Shana Eddy Grouf, and Aaron Ensweiler on behalf of StudioCanal, which holds the film rights to Cameron’s novel.
Background on Production and Previous Collaborations
What Happens at Night builds on the partnership between Scorsese and Apple that began with the 2023 film Killers of the Flower Moon. That previous movie, also starring Leonardo DiCaprio, secured 10 Oscar nominations and saw distribution through Paramount, earning $158 million worldwide at the box office.
Mads Mikkelsen’s Recent Work and Representation
Mikkelsen’s acting repertoire includes roles in the 2020 Best International Feature Oscar winner Another Round and the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale. More recently, he has appeared in Disney’s Mufasa,
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,
and Bryan Fuller’s dark fantasy series Dust Bunny.
He also starred in the Danish black comedy The Last Viking, which debuted at Venice last year and was acquired by Samuel Goldwyn Films for U.S. distribution. Mikkelsen is represented by UTA, Art Management, and Viewpoint.
Implications for Scorsese’s Latest Project and Expectations
With Mikkelsen joining a prominent cast led by Scorsese, DiCaprio, and Lawrence, What Happens at Night is positioned to be a significant addition to the director’s filmography. Reflecting on Scorsese’s reputation and the continued collaboration with top talent and production companies, the film promises to attract attention for its story and performances when it eventually releases.
