Robert Eggers works his magic once again.
Known for his off-brand horror elements, Robert Eggers is always testing new ways to unsettle an audience. Whether it be a witches curse and a goat, or a claustrophobic sea tale of insanity. He manages to always find a way to push the bar. In The Northman; a story of revenge, hatred, and even romance. Eggers keeps his brand, while delivering it in a new story medium and tone. While it isn’t in a sense “horror,” there is always a feeling of dread; and horrific violence is a common background element. His classic cinematography style sticks well with displaying the tragedy sprinkled in the sets.
From Cub, to Wolf.
The Northman starts with a young boy, his Viking family, and the violence that comes with it. The first act may take its time with foreshadowing, but the payoff is immensely satisfying. You can immediately recognise Eggers’ cinematography style, and even notice influence from his two previous films. It’s clear this isn’t a horror film, but it also does well with displaying its own brand of horror within its world. It’s deeply rooted in folklore, and it uses the mysticism to drive the story at full speed. With animals at that forefront, playing an especially important role. There’s visions of Viking magic, and mentions of the Gods are constant. Without over flowing the cup with this philosophical aspect, it also fills that cup with blood. The horror of humanity balances the spirituality of it. The visuals can switch between beautiful, or dark and existential. While the score and sound add an extra element of intensity to important scenes. Robert doesn’t just deliver a full blown revenge story; but also a beautiful respect to the folklore. It throws you into the blood soaked mud, and you feel a part of it the whole way through. It wastes no time in delivering its point, and every character arc ties up nicely. Alexander Skarsgård steps into the wolves den and delivers a roaring performance. Anya Taylor glows in a stand out job. While Claes Bang gives an outstanding performance as the antagonist. The first two acts set up a climax with big names like Willem Dafoe, and a fun small appearance by Bjork. Eggers’ shines in his third, and best, film to date.
While it may feel slow at the start, it smoothly kicks up the pace for a thrilling third act, and riveting climax. The Northman receives an 8/10.
The CineSquad 