Norwegian disaster films have been making waves lately. Starting with 2015’s *The Wave* and moving to *The Quake* in 2018 and *The Burning Sea* in 2021, these movies have upped the stakes with each release. Now, filmmakers seem to have a new beast in mind: the kraken from Norse mythology.
You don’t need to be a kraken expert to enjoy this film. But knowing the lore deepens the experience. Unlike what you see in movies like *Clash of the Titans*, the kraken isn’t just a massive monster. According to legend, it lays on the ocean floor for years, consuming nutrients to attract fish. Then, without warning, it strikes, devouring everything in its grasp. This makes the kraken more like a natural disaster than your typical movie monster.
In modern times, we may not think much about the kraken, but we do monitor rich marine areas closely. Johanne, played by Sara Khorami, is skeptical about fish farms. After working in the industry, she returns as an inspector to visit an old flame, Erik (Mikkel Bratt Silset). Their past complicates her concerns over fish farms, which can become breeding grounds for lice. Erik’s company has developed a sonic wave system to keep parasites at bay, but with big money on the line, corners are often cut, and something much larger could be lurking beneath the surface.
This film takes a more scientific approach compared to typical Hollywood blockbusters. Director Pål Øie skillfully weaves folklore with real environmental issues, creating tension beyond simple character introductions. Visual hints about the kraken build suspense long before the audience sees it. It’s a clever storytelling technique that enhances the overall experience.
Character development is where the film falters a bit. Some supporting characters feel underdeveloped, making it hard for viewers to resonate with their fates. For instance, Jenny Evensen plays a teenager whose early promise quickly fades into a need for constant rescue. Despite this, impressive special effects keep the audience engaged. Creatures of varying sizes and the sight of kraken tentacles hunting create a sense of dread that feels fresh and real.
There are unspoken hints of sexual tension in the tentacle scenes, particularly given the film’s setting. However, the horror remains the focus. The kraken’s actions come across as mechanical rather than personal, amplifying the sense of existential dread. This aligns with the themes in older kraken legends, emphasizing humanity’s vulnerability against immense natural forces.
While the film’s smaller cast and scope may limit its broader appeal, the message resonates: any peace is fleeting. Ultimately, it’s a compelling eco-horror film that blends monster action with deeper environmental themes, striking a balance between scares and suspense.
In a world increasingly aware of environmental issues, this film serves as a reminder of the fine line we walk with nature—and the monsters that may lurk beneath its surface.
