The Northman

Upon his father’s execution, Viking prince Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård), tours the earth with a three fold mission and purpose in mind. Avenge his father (Ethan Hawke), save his mother (Nicole Kidman), and kill his uncle (Claes Bang). Praying at the alter of Odin and sharpening his blade for many years Amleth’s purpose eventually comes to focus on the island of Iceland where a grizzly crossing of fates takes place. But who will ultimately ride to the gates of Valhalla? Written by Sjón and Robert Eggers, and Directed by Eggers, this window into the time of Vikings and spirit lore is perhaps the most linear film Eggers has produced yet, less canted in language and cryptic dialogue but still focused on beautiful visuals creating a transportive work of art. This is clearly Eggers largest budget film to date with a polished look and feel that still maintains his distinct artistry and unflinching sense of period appropriate horror and pathos. From a cast perspective all players sit nicely within frame, in fact, it would appear Eggers is starting to find regulars for his troupe with additional characters played by Willem Dafoe and Anya Taylor-Joy. Bottom line this is another gem that will sit with you long after viewing, worth the watch at roughly two hours and sixteen minutes runtime, The Northman is rated R.