The mystery of menopause

When director Louise Unmack Kjeldsen is stricken with insomnia, brain fog and depression, it slowly dawns on her that what she thought was a private crisis is in reality a global experience shared by women all over the world.

In her search for answers, she travels out to meet leading researchers in brain research, psychiatry and the labor market. They investigate how the hormonal changes of menopause affect women's mental health, work life and identity -- and how they can increase the risk of depression and dementia, among other things.

At the same time, Louise meets women across countries, cultures and life circumstances who tell of losing themselves at a stage of life we still know remarkably little about. The film also explores the dilemma between talking openly about the symptoms of menopause and the risk of sickening women — because if we don't, we risk leaving them without the knowledge and help they need.

“The Mystery of Menopause” is a film about body, power and knowledge — and about the right to understand what happens when the last egg rolls out.

Directed by Louise Unmack Kjeldsen
Country/year: Denmark, Norway, Germany, 2026
Running time: 75 min.
Formato: DCP
Age limit: Allowed for children over 15
Original title: Menopause Mystery

Part of the series: Don't Fear the Weird 2026
Cinematek is again this year at the centre of the Don't Fear the Weird festival, where films, conversations and community come together. Throughout the festival days, we invite the audience inside for a series of film experiences that explore psychological vulnerability, community, identity and being human in different ways.