The Northman (5/10)

Huh?

I refuse to believe that the director of The Lighthouse directed this film. Short summary of the plot: Lion King but rated R. Call it “epic” if you want, to me it’s just another Hamlet like so many other variations: a wronged prince attaining what he lost and earning maturity. The Shakespearean tragedies and Greek epics are revered for their establishment of a general story-telling framework, they condensed in eons to influence myriad - a mere recreation with Vikings’ theme does not deserve to be renowned “epic”.

Surely, the scenaries and props are aesthetically convincing, and Nicole Kidman’s character’s malice is a solid twist, but those’re the only things to be complimented. I’m not mesmerized by the gores, nor am I resonated with the people. Following Amleth’s (which, sarcastically, sounds exactly like Hamlet) perspective, dramatic irony is used to an extent that almost seems like a lack of character logistics, while the men and women behave like ancient people which is even more awkward in a modern view. The movie experience felt like I accidentally broke in during a cult meeting, then was tied to a chair to watch their rituals before they sacrifice me.