Review of The Northman (2022)

General Information

• Director: Robert Eggers
• Main Cast:
  • Alexander Skarsgård (Amleth)
  • Nicole Kidman (Queen Gudrún)
  • Claes Bang (Fjölnir)
  • Anya Taylor-Joy (Olga of the Birch Forest)
  • Ethan Hawke (King Aurvandil)
  • Willem Dafoe (Heimir the Fool)
• Genre: Action, Drama, Fantasy, Thriller
• Runtime: 137 minutes

Plot

The Northman is a brutal and visually striking Viking revenge saga set in the early medieval period. The story follows Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård), a young prince who witnesses the brutal murder of his father, King Aurvandil (Ethan Hawke), at the hands of his uncle Fjölnir (Claes Bang). Fleeing into the wilds, Amleth swears vengeance and dedicates his life to avenging his father’s death. As an adult, he infiltrates Fjölnir’s ranks under the guise of a slave, determined to carry out his bloody revenge, all while grappling with his destiny and the supernatural forces that seem to guide him.

Highlights

1. Robert Eggers’ Direction
   • Robert Eggers, known for his unique and atmospheric style (as seen in The Witch and The Lighthouse), brings a raw and visceral approach to Viking lore in The Northman. His meticulous attention to historical detail and immersive world-building ensures that the film feels authentic to its period. Eggers expertly blends historical accuracy with mythological elements, creating a haunting and immersive atmosphere.
2. Alexander Skarsgård as Amleth
   • Alexander Skarsgård delivers a powerful and physically imposing performance as Amleth. His portrayal of the tortured, revenge-driven prince is raw and compelling, with Skarsgård bringing an intensity to the character that is both chilling and poignant. His commitment to performing many of his own stunts adds to the realism and physicality of his role.
3. Visuals and Cinematography
   • The cinematography by Jarin Blaschke (who also worked on The Witch) is breathtaking, capturing the stark beauty of the Nordic landscape. The film’s striking visuals, from the bleak fjords to the otherworldly rituals, are integral to the storytelling. The battle sequences are brutal and visceral, and the use of natural lighting enhances the gritty realism of the Viking world.
4. Mythology and Themes
   • The film is steeped in Norse mythology, with supernatural visions and encounters that add depth to Amleth’s quest for revenge. Themes of fate, family, loyalty, and the cycle of violence are explored, making the film as much a meditation on vengeance as it is an action-packed revenge story. The tension between personal choice and destiny adds complexity to Amleth’s journey.
5. Nicole Kidman’s Performance
   • Nicole Kidman is captivating as Queen Gudrún, Amleth’s mother, whose motivations and allegiances remain ambiguous throughout much of the film. Her character brings an element of mystery and complexity to the story, and Kidman’s portrayal is both haunting and layered.
6. Supporting Cast and Performances
   • The supporting cast, including Willem Dafoe as the eccentric Heimir and Anya Taylor-Joy as Olga, contributes significantly to the film’s depth. Dafoe’s performance brings a touch of dark humor and eccentricity, while Taylor-Joy’s portrayal of Olga adds a sense of mysticism and strength to the narrative.

Criticisms

1. Pacing and Length
   • Some viewers may find the pacing slow, particularly during the film’s quieter moments or more ritualistic sequences. The film’s 137-minute runtime can feel excessive at times, especially given its relatively straightforward revenge plot.
2. Violence and Brutality
   • The film is unapologetically violent, and its brutality can be overwhelming. While this is integral to its depiction of Viking culture, some viewers may find certain scenes disturbing or excessive. The unflinching depiction of violence is not for the faint-hearted.
3. Complexity of Plot
   • The film’s deep dive into Norse mythology and the blending of supernatural elements with reality might be confusing for those not familiar with the myths. Some plot points can feel esoteric, and the film’s reliance on symbolic imagery may alienate some viewers.

Verdict

The Northman is a visually stunning and fiercely intense Viking epic that combines Robert Eggers’ distinctive directorial style with a strong performance by Alexander Skarsgård. The film excels in its atmosphere, mythology, and exploration of vengeance, but its unrelenting brutality and slow pacing may not appeal to all viewers. For those who appreciate a dark, visceral, and mythologically rich revenge tale, The Northman is an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Rating: 8/10