The Damned (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Damned, directed by Thordur Palsson, is a chilling period horror set in the desolate beauty of 19th-century Iceland. As Palsson’s feature-length directorial debut, this film delves deep into themes of survival, guilt, and the supernatural, framed within a harsh and unforgiving winter landscape. While it offers striking cinematography and an intense atmosphere, The Damned leaves viewers divided over its ambiguous ending and reliance on predictable jumpscares.
Synopsis: A Haunting Tale of Survival
Set in a remote Icelandic fishing village during an especially brutal winter, the film follows Eva (Odessa Young), a widowed leader of a struggling fishing station. When a Spanish galleon capsizes off the coast, Eva makes the heart-wrenching decision to let the sailors perish rather than risk depleting her village’s already scarce resources. This choice triggers a series of eerie events as supernatural retribution—embodied by the draugr, a creature from Norse folklore—descends upon the community.
Eva’s internal struggle intensifies as the haunting escalates, culminating in a battle between guilt, survival, and the eerie forces threatening her village. The film’s moral complexity and psychological tension make it more than just a traditional monster movie.
Strengths: Visuals and Atmosphere
The Damned excels in creating an immersive, period-accurate setting. Cinematographer Eli Arenson captures Iceland’s stark, frozen landscapes in stunning detail, making the icy expanse feel like a character in itself. The sparse production design and Helen Beaumont’s meticulous costumes further ground the film in its historical context.
Palsson’s ability to evoke dread is noteworthy. The cold, isolation, and relentless winter are palpable throughout, amplified by Stephen McKeon’s chilling score. The use of folklore adds depth, weaving a narrative that feels both timeless and culturally specific.
Weaknesses: Narrative and Execution
Despite its strengths, The Damned falters in its storytelling. The overuse of jumpscares undermines the atmospheric dread, and the film’s ending leaves too many questions unanswered. The ambiguity surrounding the draugr—whether it is a real creature or a manifestation of collective guilt—detracts from the tension, leaving viewers confused rather than intrigued.
While the moral dilemmas are compelling, the characters’ arcs feel underdeveloped. Eva’s guilt and resilience are central, but her emotional journey lacks the depth needed to fully engage the audience. Supporting characters, though well-acted, often serve as plot devices rather than fully realized individuals.
Themes: Guilt, Survival, and Folklore
At its core, The Damned explores the psychological toll of survival. Eva’s decision to prioritize her village’s safety over the lives of strangers sets the stage for a narrative steeped in guilt and retribution. The draugr—a creature from Scandinavian folklore—embodies these themes, acting as both a supernatural antagonist and a metaphor for the weight of moral compromise.
The film’s commentary on faith and action is particularly poignant. A scene where a devout character prays as the shipwrecked sailors drown underscores the futility of words without deeds, echoing contemporary critiques of passive responses to crises.
Streaming Availability and Predictions
As of now, The Damned is not available for streaming. However, given its cinematic appeal and critical buzz, it’s likely to debut on popular platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video. For rental or purchase options, services like Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu may offer the film in the near future. Keep an eye on platforms like JustWatch for updates on availability.
Conclusion: A Chilling Winter Watch
The Damned is an ambitious debut that showcases Thordur Palsson’s potential as a filmmaker. While it stumbles in its narrative execution, the film’s atmospheric visuals, haunting score, and cultural depth make it a worthwhile experience. For fans of slow-burn horror and folklore-inspired tales, The Damned offers a chilling escape into Iceland’s icy heart.
Ready to experience the chilling world of The Damned? Bookmark JustWatch to stay updated on streaming options. Share your thoughts on the film in the comments below—did the draugr haunt your dreams, or did the ending leave you cold? Let us know!
