The Secret Life of Words

The film begins by exploring Hanna's troubled psyche as a torture survivor from the Croatian war. Her experiences have profoundly affected her mental health, leaving her with deep-seated emotional scars.

Hanna works as a burn unit nurse in Copenhagen, where she also engages in survival counseling. This setting serves as a backdrop for her healing process, but her past continues to haunt her.

Her traumatic story is documented by Inge, a caring investigator who understands the depth of Hanna's pain. This documentation signifies an effort to recognize and validate her experiences.

Hanna grapples with the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, which manifest in her compulsive behaviors, like stacking soap bars meticulously. This illustrates her constant struggle to regain control over her life.

Her nearly deaf condition, requiring a hearing aid, adds another layer of isolation to her already lonely existence. This impairment further complicates her interactions and emotional connections with others.

Despite her dedication to her work, her union insists that she takes some time off to address her mental health. This intervention highlights the concern for her well-being and the struggles faced by survivors.

Hanna retreats to a serene seacoast village for her time off. This peaceful environment contrasts sharply with her turbulent inner life, offering a momentary escape from her past.

While in the village, she overhears a conversation about a live-in nurse needed for an injured worker on an oil platform. Motivated by a sense of purpose, she decides to volunteer for the challenging assignment.

Hanna begins her new role caring for Josef, a worker recovering from severe burns and temporary blindness after a rig fire. Their relationship evolves as they share their vulnerabilities and pain.

In a touching moment, Josef gently touches Hanna's scars, prompting her to reveal her traumatic past. This exchange signifies the beginning of a deep emotional bond based on shared suffering.

After a period of care, Josef is transferred to a hospital for further treatment. This transition marks a turning point in their relationship, as Hanna reflects on the impact of their connection.

Hanna returns to her job at the factory upon Josef's departure. She finds that the emotional weight of her shared experiences with him lingers in her mind, enhancing her understanding of her own trauma.

Josef has a deep conversation with Inge about the emotional scars left by trauma and survival. He begins to understand the guilt and pain that trouble survivors like Hanna, deepening his empathy.

As the story unfolds, it becomes a beautiful love story between two wounded souls. Their shared journey towards understanding and healing emphasizes the transformative power of connection.

The film concludes with an uplifting resolution that highlights character development. Through love and shared experiences, both Hanna and Josef find solace and hope amidst their trauma.