The Northman (2022) Review: A Brutal and Mythic Viking Epic
Introduction
“The Northman” (2022), directed by Robert Eggers, is a visually striking and intensely immersive Viking epic that delves into the raw, primal world of Norse mythology and medieval warfare. Known for its meticulous attention to historical detail and its bold storytelling, the film stars Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Willem Dafoe. With its blend of historical drama and mythological elements, “The Northman” offers a unique cinematic experience that explores themes of vengeance, fate, and honor.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, and performances, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase “The Northman” online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
“The Northman” follows Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård), a young Viking prince who witnesses the brutal murder of his father, King Aurvandil (Ethan Hawke), by his uncle Fjölnir (Claes Bang). In the aftermath of the murder, Amleth is forced into exile and grows up with a singular focus: avenging his father’s death and reclaiming his birthright.
The film’s narrative is driven by Amleth’s quest for revenge, which leads him on a harrowing journey filled with violence, betrayal, and mystical encounters. Along the way, he encounters various characters who play pivotal roles in his quest, including Olga (Anya Taylor-Joy), a Slavic sorceress who becomes both a lover and an ally.
The film’s plot intertwines elements of historical drama with Norse mythology, creating a rich and immersive world that captures the harsh realities and mystical beliefs of the Viking era.
Themes and Emotional Impact
“The Northman” explores themes of vengeance, destiny, and the cyclical nature of violence. The film’s focus on Amleth’s quest for revenge highlights the destructive power of seeking retribution and the impact it has on both the avenger and those around him.
The theme of fate is central to the story, with the film incorporating elements of Norse mythology to explore the concept of destiny and how it shapes the characters’ actions. Amleth’s journey is marked by a sense of inevitability and predestination, reflecting the belief in a predetermined fate that drives the narrative.
The emotional impact of “The Northman” is heightened by its intense and visceral portrayal of violence and its exploration of personal and familial relationships. The film’s depiction of Amleth’s struggles and sacrifices adds depth to his character and enhances the audience’s connection to his journey.
Performances and Direction
Alexander Skarsgård delivers a powerful performance as Amleth, capturing the character’s physicality, determination, and inner turmoil. Skarsgård’s portrayal effectively conveys the depth of Amleth’s quest for vengeance and his internal conflict, making him a compelling and nuanced protagonist.
Nicole Kidman’s performance as Queen Gudrún adds emotional complexity to the film. Kidman’s portrayal of Gudrún as both a mother and a schemer provides a layered depiction of her character’s motivations and conflicts.
Anya Taylor-Joy brings a captivating presence to her role as Olga, offering both strength and vulnerability in her portrayal of the Slavic sorceress. Her chemistry with Skarsgård enhances the film’s emotional depth and romantic elements.
Willem Dafoe’s performance as the enigmatic jester Heimir adds a touch of eccentricity and mysticism to the film. Dafoe’s unique portrayal contributes to the film’s atmospheric and mythological elements.
Robert Eggers’ direction is a major strength of the film, as his meticulous attention to historical detail and his ability to create a visceral and immersive experience shine throughout. Eggers’ vision for “The Northman” combines intense action with rich mythological and historical elements, creating a film that is both visually stunning and narratively compelling.
The screenplay, co-written by Eggers and Sjón, is well-crafted and intricate, blending historical drama with mythological themes. The dialogue and plot development effectively support the film’s exploration of fate and vengeance, contributing to its overall impact.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography by Jarin Blaschke is a standout element of “The Northman,” capturing the harsh and rugged landscapes of the Viking world. Blaschke’s use of natural light, sweeping camera movements, and detailed visuals enhances the film’s authenticity and atmosphere.
The film’s score, composed by Robin Carolan and Sebastian Gainsborough, complements the intense and atmospheric elements of the story. The music adds to the film’s epic and immersive quality, reinforcing its emotional and dramatic impact.
Where to Watch “The Northman” Online in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “The Northman,” several streaming services and platforms in the United States offer the film for streaming, rental, or purchase:
Streaming Services:
- Hulu: “The Northman” is available to stream with a Hulu subscription. It is part of Hulu’s library of recent releases.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription. It can also be rented or purchased directly on the platform.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent “The Northman” in HD for approximately $5.99 or purchase it for around $19.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play, with rental options starting at $5.99 and purchase prices around $19.99.
- Apple iTunes: On iTunes, “The Northman” can be rented for $5.99 or purchased for $19.99. The film is available in HD, with the option to download for offline viewing.
- Vudu: Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for “The Northman,” with similar pricing to other platforms. The film supports HDX viewing for high-quality playback.
Conclusion
“The Northman” (2022) is a visually stunning and thematically rich Viking epic that offers a compelling blend of historical drama and mythological storytelling. With its powerful performances, meticulous direction, and immersive cinematography, the film delivers a memorable and intense cinematic experience.
Whether you are drawn to its epic battles, intricate narrative, or exploration of Norse mythology, “The Northman” provides a gripping and engaging viewing experience. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to access this epic tale and immerse yourself in the brutal and mythic world of the Vikings.
