Introduction
“Armand” (2025) is an intense psychological drama directed by Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel, the grandson of legendary filmmaker Ingmar Bergman. The film delves into a harrowing school controversy where a six-year-old boy, Armand, is accused of an ambiguous yet deeply troubling act against his best friend. With its heavy themes of morality, justice, and perception, the film aims to challenge its audience’s perspective on truth and innocence. But does Armand succeed in delivering a compelling, thought-provoking narrative, or does it get lost in its own artistic ambitions?
Plot Summary
The movie revolves around Elisabeth (Renate Reinsve), a widowed mother who is called to her son’s school for an urgent meeting. Upon arrival, she discovers that her sister-in-law, Sarah (Ellen Dorrit Petersen), and her husband, Anders (Endre Hellestveit), are present, alongside the school’s administration. Elisabeth is blindsided by the accusation against her son, which suggests that Armand has committed an act of abuse against Sarah’s child, Jon.
What follows is a psychological and emotional rollercoaster as the adults debate the credibility of the claims, the responsibilities of parenting, and the subjective nature of truth. The school administrators attempt to mediate the escalating tensions, but the lack of clear evidence and the deeply personal stakes make the situation all the more volatile. As the film progresses, surreal sequences blur the line between reality and imagination, leaving the audience questioning what is truly happening.
A Visually Striking Yet Polarizing Film
While Armand has been praised for its powerful performances, particularly from Renate Reinsve and Ellen Dorrit Petersen, it is not a film for everyone. Some viewers have found it to be overly long and unnecessarily dramatic, with its surreal elements feeling more like distractions than meaningful additions to the story.
The cinematography is sparse but beautiful, using empty hallways and dimly lit classrooms to create an unsettling atmosphere. The film’s dreamlike moments—including interpretative dance sequences and eerie interactions—add a layer of ambiguity that may either captivate or frustrate the audience. For some, this stylistic choice enhances the film’s themes, while for others, it makes the narrative feel convoluted and inaccessible.
Critical Reception: Mixed Reactions
Critics and audiences have had highly divided opinions on Armand.
✅ What Works:
- Brilliant performances: Reinsve and Petersen deliver nuanced, emotionally charged portrayals of women struggling with their roles as mothers and protectors.
- Thought-provoking themes: The film raises complex questions about justice, childhood innocence, and the consequences of parental overreach.
- Unique storytelling: The blend of realism and surrealism makes for an unconventional yet ambitious cinematic experience.
❌ What Doesn’t Work:
- Overly long runtime: Some argue that the movie stretches its premise too thin, making certain scenes feel redundant.
- Surreal elements feel forced: While some artistic choices are effective, others detract from the film’s core emotional weight.
- Unresolved narrative threads: The film poses many questions but offers few answers, which may frustrate viewers looking for a clearer resolution.
As one viewer put it:
“It’s 90% of the way to a masterful social satire/drama, but stumbles in its dalliances with fantasy. Sometimes it works beautifully, and other times, it falls apart.”
Another perspective, however, praises the film’s daring approach:
“The performances are sublime, and it dares to challenge conventional storytelling. It might not be for everyone, but for those willing to engage, it’s a thought-provoking ride.”
Where to Watch Armand (2025) Online?
As of March 2025, Armand is not yet available for streaming. However, it is expected to arrive on major platforms soon.
📌 Predicted Streaming Availability in the U.S.:
- Likely to be released on HBO Max or Netflix, given their history of acquiring thought-provoking international dramas.
- Could also appear on MUBI or The Criterion Channel, platforms known for hosting arthouse films.
- Rental options may become available on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies.
For the latest availability updates, visit JustWatch.
Final Verdict: A Film That Demands Patience
Armand is not a film for casual viewing. It demands patience, engagement, and a willingness to embrace ambiguity. While it may not resonate with everyone, those who appreciate psychological dramas and abstract storytelling might find it to be a rewarding experience.
Are you ready to dive into one of the most polarizing films of the year? Keep an eye on JustWatch to see when Armand becomes available for streaming. If you’ve already watched it, let us know your thoughts in the comments! Did it leave an impact, or was it just another pretentious arthouse experiment?
