Robert Eggers’ critical success continues to grow, establishing him as a key director in contemporary cinema. Known for his dark and spectacular portrayals, his filmography includes notable titles such as The Witch and The Lighthouse, the latter acclaimed for the complexity of its narrative and the performances of its leads. His third installment, The Northman, is now premiering on Netflix, providing the film with a new opportunity after its box office failure.
A movie with all the intensity of Shakespeare
The Northman, an adaptation of a legendary Viking story that inspired Hamlet, tells the tale of Prince Amleth’s quest for revenge after witnessing his father’s murder at the hands of his uncle. This journey, filled with violence and mythology, reflects the brutality inherent in Nordic culture, merging an intense narrative with a hypnotic visual aesthetic, achieved through 87 days of filming in extreme conditions in Northern Ireland and Iceland.
The film features an impressive cast that includes Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Ethan Hawke, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Willem Dafoe, who bring complex characters to life in a brutal context. Despite its high budget of 90 million dollars, The Northman failed to resonate in a market that favors family films and franchises. However, its arrival on streaming platforms like Netflix could revalue it.
Critics like Alfonso Cuarón have praised Eggers’ work, highlighting its visual and emotional complexity. Media outlets like The Guardian have described the film as “absolutely stunning,” while IndieWire points out its visceral impact. With the adaptation of this Viking legend, Eggers not only presents a journey of revenge but also offers a cinematic experience rich in symbolism and brutal aesthetics.
