Viking Wolf | Official trailer | Netflix

Viking Wolf (original title: Vikingulven) is a 2022 Norwegian horror film directed by Stig Svendsen that reinvents the classic werewolf tale with a unique blend of Norse mythology, suspense, and visceral horror. The film combines the chilling atmosphere of Nordic folklore with the intense and gritty horror elements that fans of the werewolf genre crave.

The story follows Thale (played by Elli Rhiannon Müller Osborne), a young teenager who moves to a small Norwegian town with her mother, Liv Berg, who has just taken a position as the town’s new police officer. Thale is soon caught up in a series of gruesome murders that leave the town on edge, and as the body count rises, the police uncover evidence pointing to an ancient, supernatural predator that terrorized the region centuries ago. As the mystery deepens, Thale begins to experience strange changes herself, leading to a horrifying self-discovery that ties her fate to that of the legendary Viking wolf.

Viking Wolf distinguishes itself with its chilling atmosphere, set against the stark beauty of Norway’s forests and mountains. The cinematography captures the haunting isolation of the countryside, amplifying the sense of dread as darkness falls and the hunt begins. The film’s visuals create a cold, foreboding landscape where danger feels ever-present, allowing the natural beauty to contrast with the brutality of the werewolf attacks.

The film also explores Norse mythology, tying the werewolf’s origins back to ancient Viking lore. This historical layer adds depth to the story, blending horror with the mystique of Viking legends. The script subtly weaves these mythical elements into the plot, hinting at ancient curses and drawing on Viking beliefs that offer a fresh twist to the werewolf genre.

Elli Rhiannon Müller Osborne’s portrayal of Thale is commendable, as she brings a sense of vulnerability and strength to her character’s journey. As Thale grapples with her own transformation, the film delves into themes of identity, fear, and the struggle between one’s humanity and animalistic instincts. Thale’s character arc adds an emotional layer to the horror, emphasizing the psychological impact of her gradual transformation and the moral implications of her predatory instincts.

The horror elements are intense and satisfyingly visceral. The film doesn’t shy away from gore, and the transformation scenes are particularly chilling, reminiscent of classic werewolf films yet with a fresh, realistic approach. The special effects, though grounded and somewhat restrained, effectively convey the monstrous nature of the Viking wolf, with attention to detail in the creature design that nods to traditional werewolf aesthetics while introducing unique features inspired by Nordic lore.

In summary, Viking Wolf (2022) is a gripping addition to the werewolf horror genre, offering a unique Nordic spin on the classic monster story. By blending Norse mythology with modern horror, the film creates a haunting and suspenseful atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge. With strong performances, a chilling setting, and a compelling mix of folklore and horror, Viking Wolf stands out as a must-watch for fans of supernatural thrillers and Scandinavian folklore.