My dad read 'The Danish Girl' and fell in love with it. He told me, 'You need to do this film.'

In this quote, Alicia Vikander reflects on the personal impact that the novel The Danish Girl had on her father and how it led him to encourage her to take on the role in the film adaptation. She recounts how her dad read the book, fell in love with it, and then recommended that she do the film. His suggestion shows how deeply he connected with the story and believed that Alicia was the right person to bring the character to life on screen. This reflects the significant influence her father had in her career, guiding her toward projects that had emotional and artistic weight.

The reference to The Danish Girl also highlights how impactful literature can be in shaping an artist’s choices. The novel, which tells the story of Lili Elbe, one of the first people to undergo gender confirmation surgery, deals with themes of identity, courage, and self-discovery. Vikander’s father’s strong emotional reaction to the book suggests that the themes resonated deeply with him, and he felt that his daughter, who would eventually portray Gerda Wegener, the wife of Lili Elbe, could bring those themes to life with sincerity and depth.

Vikander’s decision to take on the role was likely influenced not just by her father’s recommendation but also by the significance of the story itself. The film dealt with important social issues related to gender identity, and Vikander, having been advised by someone she trusted deeply, recognized the importance of contributing to such a meaningful narrative. Her father's involvement in her career choices reveals the importance of family support and guidance in making decisions about the roles she takes.

Ultimately, Alicia Vikander’s quote underscores the role of family influence in shaping her career. It also illustrates the personal connection between a beloved family member and the choices an actor makes, particularly when the material aligns with deeply held beliefs or personal values. Her father's recommendation highlights how art and literature can inspire decisions that have a lasting impact on both the artist and the audience.