Utøya: July 22 (2018) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction
Utøya: July 22 (2018), directed by Erik Poppe, is a harrowing and impactful film that dramatizes the tragic events of July 22, 2011, when a far-right extremist carried out a mass shooting on the island of Utøya, Norway. The film provides a gripping and emotional portrayal of the real-life tragedy, focusing on the experiences of the young people who were caught in the midst of the attack. With its immersive style and powerful performances, Utøya: July 22 offers a poignant reflection on the impact of violence and the resilience of those affected. This review explores the film’s narrative, thematic elements, and visual style, and provides information on where to watch Utøya: July 22 online in 2024.
Plot Overview
Utøya: July 22 centers on the events of the day when Anders Behring Breivik launched a mass shooting at a Workers’ Youth League camp on the island of Utøya. The film takes place in real-time and follows the experiences of Kaja (Andrea Berntsen), a young girl attending the camp.
As the shooting unfolds, the film captures Kaja’s struggle to survive and protect her younger sister, Emilie (Elli Rhiannon Müller Osbourne). The narrative is presented from Kaja’s perspective, immersing viewers in the chaos and fear of the situation as she navigates the island in an attempt to escape the gunman and find safety.
The film does not shy away from depicting the horror and intensity of the attack, portraying the courage and desperation of the young people trapped on the island. The real-time approach enhances the emotional impact, providing a raw and unfiltered look at the events of that day.
Characters and Performances
The film’s cast delivers powerful performances that capture the emotional weight of the events:
- Kaja (Andrea Berntsen): Andrea Berntsen plays Kaja, the central character who experiences the attack firsthand. Berntsen’s performance is intense and evocative, conveying the fear, determination, and resilience of her character as she tries to survive and protect her sister.
- Emilie (Elli Rhiannon Müller Osbourne): Elli Rhiannon Müller Osbourne portrays Emilie, Kaja’s younger sister. Her performance adds an additional layer of emotional depth to the story, highlighting the bond between the siblings and the stakes of the attack.
- The Gunman (Bjørn Sundquist): The character of the gunman is portrayed by Bjørn Sundquist, though his role is minimal and mostly seen from a distance. His presence serves as a constant source of tension and fear throughout the film.
The supporting cast includes several young actors who portray other camp attendees and contribute to the film’s depiction of the chaos and fear experienced by the victims.
Themes and Emotional Impact
Utøya: July 22 explores themes of trauma, survival, and the impact of extremism. The film provides a powerful commentary on the effects of violence and the strength of those who endure such tragedies.
The emotional impact of the film is profound, as it conveys the harrowing reality of the attack and the resilience of the young people who faced it. The real-time approach and focus on personal experiences make the film a moving and impactful reflection on the nature of violence and the human spirit.
Visual Style and Cinematography
The cinematography in Utøya: July 22 is designed to create an immersive and intense experience. The film is shot in real-time, using long takes and close-up shots to enhance the sense of immediacy and urgency. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting contributes to the raw and realistic portrayal of the events.
The visual style complements the film’s narrative, emphasizing the chaotic and terrifying nature of the attack while maintaining a focus on the personal experiences of the characters. The cinematography effectively captures the fear and desperation of the situation, creating a powerful and engaging viewing experience.
Critical Reception
Utøya: July 22 received acclaim from critics for its powerful and respectful depiction of the tragic events. The film was praised for its intense and immersive approach, as well as the strong performances by the cast.
Critics highlighted the film’s ability to convey the emotional and psychological impact of the attack while avoiding sensationalism. The real-time narrative and focus on personal experiences were noted as strengths, contributing to the film’s effectiveness in portraying the tragedy.
The film was also recognized for its technical achievements, including its cinematography and use of real-time storytelling to create a sense of immediacy and authenticity.
Where to Watch Utøya: July 22 (2018) Online in 2024
For those interested in watching Utøya: July 22 online in 2024, the following streaming platforms and digital rental services are available:
- Amazon Prime Video: Utøya: July 22 can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. The platform offers the film in HD, providing a high-quality viewing experience.
- Apple TV: Available for rent or purchase, Apple TV provides Utøya: July 22 in HD. The platform’s integration with Apple devices makes it a convenient option for users within the Apple ecosystem.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Utøya: July 22 can be rented or purchased on Google Play Movies & TV. This platform offers the film in HD, allowing viewers to watch on various devices.
- Vudu: Vudu offers Utøya: July 22 for digital rent or purchase. Known for its frequent discounts and promotions, Vudu is a good option for viewers looking for an economical way to enjoy the film.
- Hulu: Depending on regional availability, Utøya: July 22 may also be available for streaming on Hulu. Checking the platform’s library or using the search function will provide the latest availability information.
Conclusion
Utøya: July 22 (2018) is a powerful and moving film that provides a harrowing depiction of the 2011 mass shooting on the island of Utøya. Directed by Erik Poppe, the film offers an immersive and emotional experience through its real-time storytelling and compelling performances. With its focus on personal experiences and its respectful handling of the tragedy, Utøya: July 22 remains a significant and impactful film. In 2024, the film is accessible through various streaming platforms and digital rental services, allowing audiences to engage with this poignant reflection on violence and resilience.
