A ‘savage’ revenge epic that has captivated audiences for being ‘ruthless’ and ‘sinister’ is broadcasting on Film 4 tonight.
Released in 2022, The Northman is a sweeping Vikings saga featuring Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Anya Taylor-Joy and Ethan Hawke.
Helmed by Robert Eggers, the production draws from the Amleth legend, which also served as inspiration for Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
Crafted as a vengeance saga, the story tracks a young Viking prince called Amleth (portrayed by Skarsgård) who, following his father’s assassination and his mother’s abduction by his uncle, dedicates two decades as a merciless warrior before launching a mission to avenge his kin and reclaim his inheritance.
His expedition to Iceland to eliminate his uncle, Fjölnir, becomes entangled with a shocking discovery regarding his mother’s involvement in the killing and his own destiny, culminating in a savage showdown, reports the Mirror.
The production initially arrived in theatres in 2022 and whilst now earning acclaim from viewers, it was originally labelled a ‘disaster. ‘.
The picture struggled commercially, earning roughly $69.6 million globally against a net production cost of $70 million.
However, when it became available on streaming platforms for home viewing, it swiftly garnered acclaim and enthusiastic audience response.
Boasting an outstanding 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer, the picture has proved popular with viewers hailing it as “brutal” and “dark.”
One review lauded it, saying: “This movie is special. It manages to tell a tale that sees it’s own inevitable myth being built before our eyes. The depth of setting and the effort on conjuring believable and interesting details, sets and settings pays off in spades. A true tale of violence and revenge, myths and the actions that build them. The skin of your life has already been written! You cannot escape your fate.”
Another viewer said: “10/10 absolutely awesome movie, perfect amount of pace while still remaining interesting for me, loved it, will continue to watch over!”.
“This film kicks ass all the way–Worth watching more than once,” added a third.
A further fan said: “An absolute brutal movie from Robert Eggers who I swear is a master at bringing out raw emotion from his cast. Along side some terrifyingly dark set pieces make this film a must watch.”
Nevertheless, some critics found the storyline rather sluggish, with one viewer writing: “Slasher movie in disguise. Slow moving, repetitive, and just generally boring and silly..”
Another said: “Beautifully filmed but I could have done without the mysticism and at times the actors spoke so quietly I struggled to follow what was being said.”
The Northman will air on Film 4 tonight at 9pm on Sunday 30 November.
