Second Victims (Danish: Det andet offer) is a 2025 Danish drama film written and directed by Zinnini Elkington in her feature directorial debut. Starring Özlem Sağlanmak, the film follows Alexandra, a young neurologist who navigates an understaffed hospital ward.
Zinnini Elkington, the film's director and screenwriter, grew up in a family of health professionals. The idea of Second Victims was developed during a conversation between her and her sister, who is also a doctor.[2] The term "second victim" is commonly used to describe the healthcare professionals who experience severe distress after being involved in an unanticipated adverse patient event. It was introduced in an article written by Albert Wu in 2000.[3]
In April 2024, it was reported that REinvent acquired the film's international sales.[4] It was also announced that SF Studios would distribute the film in Nordic countries.[5] In September 2024, the project participated at the Finnish Film Affair.[6] The film was presented at the Nordic Market Screenings during the Nordic Film Market, held at the Gothenburg Film Festival in January 2025.[7]
Second Victims was released in Danish theatres on 10 April 2025.[9] It garnered more than 87,000 admissions during its run.[10] It was selected to screen at the Kaleidoscope section at the Filmfest Hamburg in September 2025.[11] In October 2025, it was screened at the Film Fest Gent.[12]
