The Father, The Sons, and The holy spirit

Documentary

97 min.

Two brothers reunite after a multi-million inheritance dispute in a film about blood, bonds and breakups - and about how hard it is to escape your own family.

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Info

A tragicomic, existential documentary spanning 14 years that explores the complex dynamics of family, money, and social heritage, culminating in one brother’s involvement in a right-wing radical movement called ‘Holy Europe.’ Nearly 15 years ago, brothers Henrik and Christian battled their father, Preben, over their share of the inheritance left by their wealthy grandfather. But instead of fortune, they were left with fractured family ties, as long-buried secrets finally surfaced. A decade later, the brothers are drawn back together by a mysterious phone call, which suggests their grandfather’s will was a forgery. This rekindles their quest for wealth and resolution. Henrik approaches the situation diplomatically. Meanwhile, Christian, consumed by anger and resentment, derails their efforts. Once again, the brothers find themselves divided. At the same time, the story follows their sons, now in their early twenties, as they struggle to forge their identities. Henrik’s son, Alexander, is focused on his education and future, determined to break free from the toxic family legacy. But can he maintain his course amid the ongoing turmoil? Eventually, the brothers’ paths diverge dramatically. Henrik settles into a stable family life and job, while Christian descends into radicalization, joining a right-wing internet movement based in Serbia. THE FATHER, THE SONS AND THE HOLY GHOST is a reflection on the tension between family and autonomy. It documents three generations of a family grappling with the burdens of inheritance and legacy, offering a thought-provoking look at how the past shapes our future.

  • Director

    Christian Sønderby Jepsen

  • Producer

    Mira Jargil

  • Produced by

    Moving Documentary for DR, SVT and VG TV

  • Original title

    Faderen, Sønnerne og Helligånden

  • Format

    97 min.

  • Release

    2025

Awards & festivals

  • In Competition

    CPH:DOX

    2025

  • Official Selection

    Millennium Docs Against Gravity

    2025