The Norwegian producers behind the successful disaster film trilogy “The Wave,” “The Quake,” and “The Burning Sea” are now steering their cinematic endeavors towards a new direction – naval combat movies. Their latest film, “The Arctic Convoy,” takes us back to the perilous voyage of a freighter delivering supplies to the Allies on the Eastern Front during World War 2.
A Challenging Journey
Set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Norway, “The Arctic Convoy” delves into the real-life story of a group of ships traveling from Iceland to the Russian port city of Murmansk. These vessels face the constant threat of Axis attacks, their young and inexperienced crews fighting their own fears and insecurities.
Characters in Turmoil
Led by Captain Skar, portrayed by Anders Baasmo, the crew relies on their steely resolve to navigate through treacherous waters. The only woman onboard, communications officer Ragnhild (Heidi Ruud Ellingsen), provides unwavering support. However, doubts arise when newly assigned First Mate Mork (Tobias Santelmann) displays signs of uncertainty due to a recent traumatic experience. The ship’s chief engineer (Olav Waastad) and bosun (Preben Hodneland) also add to the tension with their own fears.
Unforeseen Challenges
As the convoy progresses, the crew faces numerous trials. A U-boat sighting alerts them to the fact that they are under Axis surveillance. The fleet dwindles as other vessels are destroyed or disabled. To make matters worse, they lose their British military escort unexpectedly. Left on their own, the remaining ships must forge ahead, dealing with mined waters and the aftermath of a tragic accident.
Conflict and Redemption
In the midst of the chaos, a full-scale German attack shakes the ship to its core. The crew must reconcile their differences to survive, even if it means challenging the Captain’s authority. While tensions run high, it becomes clear that there are no villains among them. Through a series of unexpected turns, the crew must adapt and make difficult decisions while performing emergency repairs.
A Missed Opportunity
Yet, despite the potential for a compelling psychological thriller, “The Arctic Convoy” falls short of delivering a fully engaging narrative. The lack of character development prevents the film from reaching its intended emotional impact. The story suffers a lull after its major action sequence in the middle, leaving us wanting more.
Visual Authenticity
Visually, the film captures the grubby interiors and dated technology of the ship, which adds a layer of authenticity to the story. Reportedly, a preserved 1911 coal hauler that served in both world wars was used as the setting for the film.
Although “The Arctic Convoy” may not reach the heights of recent prestige war films or the energy of classic B movies, it presents an intriguing fictionalized account of a historical chapter that deserves attention. While it may not leave us deeply moved, it still manages to hold our interest and maintain a reasonable level of credibility.
For those seeking a thrilling cinematic experience akin to the “Wave” trilogy, “The Arctic Convoy” may not meet their expectations. However, it offers an engaging voyage filled with peril and courage, making it a worthwhile watch.