Polar (2019)

Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
Release Date: January 25, 2019 (Netflix)
Director: Jonas Åkerlund
Starring: Mads Mikkelsen, Vanessa Hudgens, Katheryn Winnick, Matt Lucas, Fei Ren


Plot Overview

Polar tells the story of Duncan Vizla (Mads Mikkelsen), a legendary assassin known as the “Black Kaiser,” who is ready to retire and live a quiet life. However, his employer, a corrupt organization, has other plans. Seeking to save money by eliminating aging employees to avoid paying their pensions, the company sends a team of young, ruthless assassins to kill him.

Forced back into action, Duncan uses his unparalleled skills to fight back in a bloody, no-holds-barred battle for survival. Along the way, he forms a bond with his neighbor, Camille (Vanessa Hudgens), an emotionally scarred young woman who becomes entangled in the chaos. The movie explores themes of betrayal, revenge, and redemption, set against a dark, visually striking, comic-book-inspired aesthetic.


Cast Highlights

  • Mads Mikkelsen as Duncan Vizla: A chilling, nuanced portrayal of a man torn between his violent past and a desire for peace.
  • Vanessa Hudgens as Camille: A vulnerable yet resilient character whose relationship with Duncan adds emotional depth to the story.
  • Katheryn Winnick as Vivian: A fierce and calculating presence in the ensemble.
  • Matt Lucas as Mr. Blut: A flamboyant and sadistic antagonist who brings a twisted edge to the film.
  • Fei Ren as Hilde: A standout among the team of young assassins hunting Duncan.

Key Highlights

 

  • Action and Violence: The film is packed with over-the-top, graphic violence and intense fight sequences, making it a treat for fans of high-octane thrillers.
  • Visual Style: Directed by Jonas Åkerlund, the movie boasts a stylized, neon-soaked aesthetic reminiscent of graphic novels.
  • Performances: Mikkelsen delivers a standout performance, perfectly embodying the hardened yet human assassin. Hudgens adds emotional balance with her heartfelt portrayal of Camille.

Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, Polar received mixed reviews. Critics praised Mikkelsen’s performance, the stylish visuals, and the unapologetic action but criticized the thin plot and excessive reliance on violence and gore. Despite the critiques, the film gained a cult following, particularly among fans of dark, action-packed thrillers like John Wick.

While it wasn’t a box office hit (as a direct-to-Netflix release), Polar captured the attention of audiences seeking gritty, high-energy entertainment, solidifying Mikkelsen’s status as an action star.


Would You Enjoy It?

If you’re a fan of graphic-novel-inspired visuals, relentless action, and morally complex antiheroes, Polar is worth checking out. However, its heavy reliance on violence and its darker tone might not appeal to everyone.

Would you like to know more about its source material (Polar: Came from the Cold) or similar films?