Land of Mine

Following the end of World War II in Europe in May 1945, German soldiers are captured and become prisoners of war in Denmark. The atmosphere is tense as the Wehrmacht and SS occupiers are now subjugated and must confront the consequences of their actions during the war.

A group of young German detainees is sent to the west coast of Denmark to undergo intensive training in mine clearance. Under the stern command of Sergeant Carl Leopold Rasmussen, each boy is pushed to defuse six mines per hour, with the prospect of going home in three months if they succeed.

As the boys begin their grueling work, one of the prisoners, Sebastian Schumann, clings to hope for the future. The dire food shortages contribute to their physical decline, leading to severe malnutrition among the young detainees.

In a desperate attempt to alleviate their hunger, Ernst befriends a local girl who helps him steal bread. This act of friendship stands in stark contrast to the harsh reality the boys face while working under such brutal conditions.

The harsh realities of mine clearance result in a catastrophic accident when Wilhelm loses both arms while attempting to disarm a mine. Tragically, Wilhelm later succumbs to his injuries in a field hospital, highlighting the dangers the boys face daily.

The boys suffer collectively after consuming contaminated grain, leading to severe illness. In response, Sergeant Rasmussen enforces a harsh treatment regimen, forcing them to purge with seawater, which only exacerbates their suffering.

Despite his harsh exterior, Rasmussen begins to show signs of compassion as he secretly provides the boys with extra provisions. He allows Sebastian to utilize a device he created to improve their efficiency, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

Rasmussen's kindness does not go unnoticed, as Captain Ebbe Jensen brings British troops to intimidate the boys. Although Rasmussen tries to protect the prisoners from abuse, he faces scrutiny from Jensen for showing sympathy towards them.

Werner's unfortunate encounter with a deadly cluster of landmines results in devastating consequences for his twin brother, Ernst. This tragedy deepens the emotional scars on the group of young boys already struggling with trauma from the war.

Rasmussen's beloved dog tragically dies after wandering into a supposedly safe area, reigniting his anger and causing him to withdraw support from the boys. This change signals a return to harsh treatment, placing the boys under greater strain.

When a local girl unknowingly ventures into an uncleared minefield, the boys bravely step forward to save her. Ernst enters the perilous area to comfort her, while Sebastian methodically clears a path, demonstrating remarkable courage under danger.

After the rescue, Ernst, unable to cope with the grief of losing his brother, chooses to end his life by stepping into an uncleared field. This heartbreaking moment profoundly impacts the remaining boys and brings Rasmussen to reevaluate his treatment of them.

Following Ernst's tragic death, Rasmussen begins to show more compassion towards the remaining boys. He comforts Sebastian, assuring him that freedom is near, which shifts the dynamic of their relationship amid ongoing challenges.

While clearing the beach, a devastating explosion occurs when a boy carelessly tosses an improperly defused mine onto a truck. This tragic mistake results in multiple casualties among the boys, leaving only a few survivors.

Despite completing their mission, the boys learn they may be sent to another dangerous area. In a bid to protect them, Rasmussen pleads with Captain Jensen, ultimately opting to transport the boys close to the German border for a final chance at liberation.