Arctic (2018) is a gripping survival thriller directed by Joe Penna, which tells the intense and emotional story of a man stranded in the Arctic after a plane crash. The film stars Mads Mikkelsen as Overgård, a man who has been surviving alone in the harsh, freezing wilderness, relying on his resourcefulness and determination to stay alive.

The story begins with Overgård struggling to survive in the icy expanse of the Arctic, having already endured the trauma of the crash. He’s been managing with limited resources, fishing for food, and creating shelter in an attempt to stay alive. His only hope is to find a way to reach civilization, but his chances seem slim as the brutal elements of the Arctic continue to challenge his resolve.

The plot takes a dramatic turn when Overgård discovers a severely injured woman (played by Maria Thelma Smáradóttir) who has also survived a crash. With her life in danger, he must make the difficult decision to risk his own survival to help her, leading to a perilous journey across the vast, inhospitable terrain in search of safety. The film explores themes of loneliness, survival, and human connection, as Overgård faces overwhelming odds to keep both himself and the woman alive.

What sets Arctic apart is its minimalist storytelling. There are no elaborate backstories or long dialogues; instead, the film relies on Mikkelsen’s powerful performance and the stunning, harsh landscapes to convey the story. His portrayal of Overgård as a man of few words but great resilience brings a deep emotional resonance to the survival story. The film’s visual style also adds to its tension, using the vast and unforgiving environment to mirror Overgård’s inner struggle.