Set in 1755, The Promised Land follows Captain Ludvig Kahlen, an impoverished Danish officer who returns to Denmark after 25 years of service in the German Army. With a meager pension, he seeks permission from the Royal Danish Court to cultivate barren land on the Jutland heath, hoping to establish a settlement and gain a noble title. Upon arrival, Kahlen faces opposition from Frederik Schinkel, a ruthless local magistrate intent on monopolizing the land.
Kahlen secretly employs Johannes Eriksen and his wife Ann Barbara, two indentured serfs fleeing Schinkel’s cruelty. He also hires Romani Travellers for labor despite its illegality. As Kahlen struggles against harsh conditions and Schinkel’s sabotage, he develops a bond with Ann Barbara, leading to a romantic relationship.
After successfully harvesting potatoes, Kahlen is granted royal approval for his settlement. However, Schinkel retaliates by sending convicts to attack Kahlen’s farm. In a violent confrontation, Kahlen retaliates but is ultimately arrested when Schinkel manipulates the situation against him.
With help from Ann Barbara and Edel Helene—Schinkel’s betrothed who has feelings for Kahlen—they plot revenge against Schinkel. After a dramatic confrontation that results in Schinkel’s death, Kahlen is released but Ann Barbara is imprisoned for life.
Years later, now a baron with new settlers arriving, Kahlen finds himself alone as Anmai Mus—a young Romani girl—leaves with her group. He eventually frees Ann Barbara from captivity and they ride off together towards the sea, symbolizing hope and freedom.
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