A man (Mads Mikkelson) is stranded alone in the cold and icy Arctic. After having his aeroplane crash, it’s a one-person job to find supplies, shelter and try to reach help using a manual beacon. Our leading man gets hopeful when a helicopter turns up. However, the situation quickly goes wrong. He finally decides to risk it all and ain for a promising destination even if it means risking death along the way.
Arctic is a visual stunner right from the start of the film. Beautiful shots of the icy “Arctic” show us incredible scenery with our leading actor. The visuals are so good that I couldn’t help feel disappointed that Australia never got a Bluray release of this film. But still, I’m positive no matter the format you may have the choice of viewing.
Actor Mads Mikkelson is something else here too. Best known for his villain role in James Bond “Casino Royale” or the recent Netflix film “Polar”, Mads Mikkelson brings a whole new character to the screen that makes you forget his previous work in films. It’s obvious he is wholly committed to this character, and I found him convincing and believable at all times. His actions in trying to survive I also couldn’t fault (but then again I’m no expert in survival lol).
As a plot, considering the little amounts of dialogue here (which is expected), I found myself invested and glued to the film from the start. I found myself curious to know more about the leading character, including his past and most importantly, I questioned if he will survive the challenging journey ahead of him. And most answers are generally provided apart from minor details on the man’s past or how the first accident occurred. Nevertheless, it’s easy to get invested in a film such as this. It’s also never predictable (unless you watch the film’s trailer which I suggest you don’t view beforehand). Considering the film’s small cast and the fact a 1st-time director completes this, all results are very positive and surprising.
Overall, I was amazed by Arctic. With a new setup about a man desiring to survival, the film’s visuals and plot are simply impressive. Many moments are also unpredictable. I wish more movies like this were made in today’s world. It’s a truly a credit considering the small cast and that this is the results of a first time director. Well done.
8.6/10
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Review Written by Peter Walkden
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