If you’re like me you’ve been eagerly awaiting brilliant writer-director Robert Egger’s latest film, The Northman. Well, there’s good news, it’s now available on VOD.
Starring Alexander Skarsgård, Ethan Hawke, Nicole Kidman, and Anya Taylor-Joy, the film follows young prince Amleth, whose father, the king (Hawke) is killed by his uncle and his throne stolen along with his mother. Amleth swears to avenge his father and save his mother. Hidden amongst a berserker tribe, he grows into a strong, fighter who kills like it’s an everyday mundane activity. After a raid, a vision sends him on a quest for revenge and he brings death to anyone who stands in his way.
Entwined with the story are the old legends of the north, worship of gods Odin and Freyja, ceremonies, and sacrifice. Mystics trigger otherworldly visions as men crawl on all fours like dogs and Valcaries carry the fortunate off to Valhalla.
From beginning to end, The Northman is simply stunning. The cinematography is amazing, especially during the visions and scenes of people dancing around fires. Eggers’ films all have a certain feel and look, and The Northman is no different. Like with his past films, The Witch and The Lighthouse, Eggers creates a world split between reality and hallucination that explores the pagan past.
Alexander Skarsgård really beefed up for his role, he’s massive with ripped muscles. Not only did he physically fit the part of a primal, fighter who howls like a wolf, he truly captured the heart of a broken son. In my opinion, this is without a doubt his best role and performance to date.
The entire movie was fantastically cast. Anya Taylor-Joy who plays Amleth’s love interest Olga was a fantastic choice and did well at playing her role. I do wish we would have seen Ethan Hawke’s character a little more, but it is what it is.
The story is not only gripping but will have you completely invested in the main characters, which doesn’t happen much these days. As for action, you will get your fill. But don’t get me wrong, it’s not all about blood and guts, there are tender moments and moments filled with emotion and heartbreak. Even though Amleth is a brutal man, you can’t help but feel for him. Fate has not been kind.
The Northman at its heart is about love, this man’s love for his family and his father, who will stop at nothing to avenge, and the love he finds with Olga while being enslaved. It’s love that drives him to extremes.
The Northman is simply incredible and will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. I do not doubt that you’ll find it on this year’s Top 10 list.
There is one warning I must give. If you are an animal lover this film may be hard to watch. There are multiple scenes of animal sacrifice.
