WAR SAILOR Trailer | TIFF 2022

War Sailor (2023) is a Norwegian drama directed by Gunnar Vikene that captures the harrowing journey of merchant sailors during World War II, particularly focusing on the experiences of ordinary men thrust into extraordinary circumstances. This poignant film offers an unfiltered look at the human cost of war, exploring themes of survival, trauma, and friendship as its characters navigate the perils of maritime warfare.

The story centers on Alfred Garnes (played by Kristoffer Joner), a working-class sailor who finds himself on a Norwegian merchant ship when war breaks out. Alfred, like many civilian sailors, is unprepared for the devastating realities of war. Alongside his childhood friend Sigbjørn (Pål Sverre Hagen), he is drawn into a world of peril as the ship becomes a target for enemy submarines and battleships. As non-combatants, Alfred and his fellow sailors face the terrifying uncertainty of being caught in the crossfire, and their journey becomes one of survival in the face of unimaginable odds.

What sets War Sailor apart from traditional war films is its focus on the overlooked narratives of those who didn’t enlist but still found themselves on the front lines. The film highlights the struggles of merchant sailors who were vital to the war effort, transporting essential supplies, yet were vulnerable to attacks and received little recognition. Alfred’s life at sea and the harrowing incidents he endures underline the psychological toll that war exacts on non-military personnel.

The cinematography plays a crucial role in setting the tone of the film, capturing the vast and unforgiving ocean as both a place of beauty and terror. The scenes of ships under attack are portrayed with gritty realism, immersing viewers in the chaos and fear experienced by sailors. The sound design, with booming explosions and the haunting silence after an attack, further enhances the intense atmosphere, making the audience feel as if they are alongside Alfred and Sigbjørn on their fraught journey.

At its core, War Sailor is a character-driven film, exploring the impact of war on relationships, identity, and humanity. The performances are outstanding, with Kristoffer Joner delivering a nuanced portrayal of Alfred, a man torn between his sense of duty and his desire to survive and return home to his family. Pål Sverre Hagen’s Sigbjørn serves as a foil to Alfred, embodying resilience and loyalty, even as the horrors of war test their friendship. Their bond provides an emotional anchor to the story, highlighting how friendship and solidarity can offer solace even in the darkest of times.

The film also emphasizes the cost of war beyond the battlefield. When Alfred returns home, he faces the difficult task of reintegrating into a society that does not understand the trauma he endured. War Sailor sheds light on the long-term effects of war on veterans, particularly those who were civilians. The lack of acknowledgment and support for men like Alfred, who were thrust into danger without choice, resonates as a powerful commentary on the often-unseen repercussions of war.

In conclusion, War Sailor (2023) is a compelling and deeply human exploration of the lesser-known stories of World War II. By focusing on the experiences of merchant sailors, the film brings a fresh perspective to the genre, honoring the resilience and sacrifices of those who, though unarmed, braved unimaginable dangers. It’s a haunting, thought-provoking film that pays tribute to the unsung heroes of war and reminds audiences of the enduring scars left by such conflicts. For those interested in war dramas with depth and emotional resonance, War Sailor is a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience.