Thescreescore – Robert Eggers, the visionary director behind the chilling The Witch and the critically acclaimed Nosferatu, has once again captivated audiences, albeit with a less financially successful venture. His latest historical epic, The Northman, a $69 million Viking saga starring Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, and Anya Taylor-Joy, may have underperformed at the box office, grossing only $75.8 million worldwide. However, its historical accuracy has sparked considerable debate, particularly after a Viking expert delivered a near-perfect score.
Eggers’ meticulous approach to historical detail is well-documented. His previous films have garnered praise for their atmospheric accuracy and dedication to research. The Northman, despite its box office struggles, appears to be no exception. A recent analysis by historian William Short, featured on thescreescore.com, reveals a surprisingly high level of accuracy in the film’s depiction of Viking battle techniques, weaponry, and daily life.
Short’s review, published on Insider, delves into the specifics. He lauds the film’s portrayal of Viking dwellings and the use of wood palisade fences instead of stone castles, a detail supported by historical evidence. He also highlights the accurate depiction of spear-catching and counter-throwing techniques, a battle tactic frequently mentioned in historical texts. The portrayal of berserkers, while acknowledging the mysteries surrounding them, is deemed accurate based on historical accounts of their battle frenzies and wolf-like howls.
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However, Short’s analysis isn’t without its critiques. He points out inaccuracies in the depiction of the Viking game knattleikr, noting discrepancies in the number of players and the emphasis on speed rather than strength. The use of a seax, a short sword, in a manner inconsistent with its intended purpose is also flagged. Despite these minor inconsistencies, Short’s overall assessment is overwhelmingly positive. He awards The Northman a remarkable 9 out of 10 for historical accuracy, praising the film’s dedication to research and its impressively accurate portrayal of Viking culture and society. He even declares it his favorite Viking movie.
This glowing review underscores Eggers’ commitment to authenticity, even in the face of commercial challenges. While The Northman may not have achieved box office triumph, its historical accuracy, as validated by a leading expert, solidifies its position as a significant achievement in historical filmmaking. The film serves as a testament to Eggers’ dedication to detail and his ability to translate meticulous research into a captivating cinematic experience. It’s a reminder that even a commercially unsuccessful film can be a critical and historical success.
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