Director Robert Eggers delivers another intense experience with his violent horror Netflix release, The Northman, which became available to stream on Thursday, August 28. The film revisits the blood-soaked Norse legend of the Viking prince Amleth, unfolding a fierce tale of vengeance and brutality that has captivated critics and audiences alike.
A Gruesome Quest Inspired by Norse Legend and Shakespeare
The Northman follows young nobleman Amleth, portrayed by Alexander Skarsgard, who embarks on a relentless mission to avenge the murder of his father, King Aurvandil (Ethan Hawke), at the hands of his treacherous uncle Fjolnir (Claes Bang). Amleth’s mother is forced into a marriage with his father’s killer, played by Nicole Kidman, which drives the prince into exile and obsession. While the storyline echoes Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Eggers’ film takes a more direct and primal approach, stripping away Hamlet’s hesitation and affected madness in favor of a focused, raging warrior.
This Viking revenge epic showcases unflinching violence and chaotic battle sequences, enhanced by Amleth’s iconic appearance—clad in a loincloth and wolf’s head—symbolizing his fierce determination. Critics have responded favorably, awarding the film a 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes, highlighting its brutal spectacle and gripping storytelling.
Eggers’ Signature Attention to Historical and Atmospheric Detail
Known for his meticulous craftsmanship, Robert Eggers has made authenticity and mood defining features of his films. His previous works, including The Witch (2015) and The Lighthouse (2019), established him as a visionary filmmaker with a distinctive style. The Witch was praised for its rich period detail and chilling portrayal of 17th-century New England, while The Lighthouse explored psychological horror through the tense isolation of two lighthouse keepers, played by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson.
Eggers’ most recent project before The Northman was Nosferatu (2024), which reimagined the classic vampire tale with Bill Skarsgard delivering a haunting performance as Count Orlok. This film combined gothic atmosphere with deep obsession and succeeded commercially, grossing nearly $182 million worldwide.
Collaborative Excellence Behind the Cinematic Experience
Much of the visual power in The Northman comes from Eggers’ collaboration with cinematographer Jarin Blaschke, who has earned Oscar nominations for both The Lighthouse and Nosferatu. Blaschke’s skill in capturing natural light and atmospheric themes has been integral to Eggers’ films, crafting distinctive moods whether through grainy black-and-white imagery or raw, visceral color sequences. Their partnership continues with upcoming projects like Werwulf, set for release next year.
Continued Collaborations and Prospective Projects
Eggers frequently works with a recurring group of actors, enhancing the cohesion and depth of his film ensembles. Willem Dafoe, celebrated for his performances in both The Lighthouse and The Northman, is expected to return in Werwulf. Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who featured in Nosferatu, is confirmed for Werwulf, and Lily-Rose Depp is currently in talks to join the cast. Furthermore, Eggers is reportedly planning a re-interpretation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, generating anticipation for another innovative take on a classic narrative.
The Impact of Robert Eggers’ Unique Storytelling Perspective
Robert Eggers has carved out a niche by blending intense horror with historical authenticity and radical reinterpretation of well-known tales. His distinct approach transforms familiar stories into visceral cinematic experiences, driven by a passion for detail and atmospheric tension. The Northman exemplifies this approach, combining violent horror and epic storytelling to create an unforgettable film that stands out on Netflix and beyond.
Now available in the UK on Netflix and in the US on Prime Video, The Northman reinforces Eggers’ reputation as an influential director who continually pushes the boundaries of genre filmmaking, leaving audiences eager for his future projects.
“I finally watched Barbarian on Netflix — and it’s one of the most disturbing and unsettling horror movies I’ve seen”
— Unattributed
“Netflix has the movie De Niro and Pacino reunited for — and they were robbed of an Oscar”
— Unattributed
“Apple TV Plus adds the thriller I’ve been waiting for — and it has possibly the nastiest villain of the year”
— Unattributed
