The Northman: A Riveting 2022 American Epic Infused with Norse Mythology and Directed by Robert Eggers
Background
The Northman is a 2022 American historical thriller directed by Robert Eggers. With a star-studded cast including Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Claes Bang, Anya Taylor-Joy, Ethan Hawke, Björk, and Willem Dafoe, this film transports viewers to the ancient world of Amleth, a Viking prince seeking vengeance for his father's demise. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Norse mythology as it weaves through every frame of this gripping tale.
The Northman challenges conventional patriarchal norms, toxic notions of heroism, and the perils of vengeance, immersing audiences in a relentless pursuit of familial honor. Robert Eggers pushes the boundaries of psychological intrigue while also keeping audiences with Norse mythology.
Plot Of The FIlm
Prince Amleth is on the verge of becoming a man and inheriting his kingdom when his father is brutally murdered by his uncle, who kidnaps the boy's mother. Two decades later, Amleth is now a Viking who raids Slavic villages. He soon meets a seeress in the rubble of a village his tribe ransacks who reminds him of his vow -- save his mother, kill his uncle, avenge his father.
While his pledge to save his mother, kill his uncle, and avenge his father seems simple in the beginning, multiple obstacles arise in his path forcing Amleth to make hard decisions that could involve deviating from his original plan.
The Inspiration: Norse Mythology
Amleth, also known as Amleth the Dane, is a legendary figure from Norse mythology. He is best known as the inspiration for the character Hamlet in William Shakespeare's renowned play. In the Norse mythological tradition, Amleth is depicted as a brave and cunning prince of the Danes.
Amleth's story revolves around avenging the murder of his father, King Horwendil, at the hands of his uncle, Feng. Like Hamlet, Amleth feigns madness to conceal his true intentions and gather information about his father's killer. Through his clever and strategic actions, Amleth seeks to unravel the truth and bring justice to his family.
Amleth's character embodies traits of vengeance, wit, and a deep sense of duty towards his lineage. His quest for retribution against his treacherous uncle showcases his determination and resilience in the face of adversity. Amleth's story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of betrayal, highlighting the themes of honor, loyalty, and the complexities of human nature.
Reception
The Northman achieved remarkable success at the box office, generating a noteworthy revenue of $34.2 million in the United States and Canada. Its international appeal further contributed to its global triumph, accumulating an impressive $35.4 million from other territories. In total, the film amassed a staggering $69.6 million worldwide, solidifying its position as a commercial hit and a testament to its widespread popularity.
The review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes reported an approval rating of 90% based on 372 reviews, with an average rating of 7.7/10. The website's critical consensus reads, "A bloody revenge epic and breathtaking visual marvel, The Northman finds filmmaker Robert Eggers expanding his scope without sacrificing any of his signature style."
