Cast
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Stig Frode Henriksen
as Kurt Josef Wagle
Jørn Tore Nilsen
as Rock Fjelstad
Kristoffer Joner
as Gregor Hykkerud
Jeppe Beck Laursen
as Burt Erik Johansen
Martin Hykkerud
as Tordenskjold
Martin Hovden
as Troy
Cecilie A. Mosli
as Lillian Mulder
Bjørn Sundquist
as Toill Kåre
Tommy Wirkola
as Pablo (voice)
Julia Schacht
as Heksa
Crew
Director
- Tommy Wirkola
Writer
- Stig Frode Henriksen
- Tommy Wirkola
Producer
- Kjetil Omberg
- Terje Strømstad
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Comedy/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Kurt Josef Wagle and the Legend of the Fjord Witch presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Tommy Wirkola brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2010, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Kurt Josef Wagle and the Legend of the Fjord Witch took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.6 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 82 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1751 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2010, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Kurt Josef Wagle and the Legend of the Fjord Witch shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Do You Like My Basement?, which focuses more on action than character development, Kurt Josef Wagle and the Legend of the Fjord Witch subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The House and The White String and The Black Water Vampire explore similar territory, Kurt Josef Wagle and the Legend of the Fjord Witch stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 5, 2010
- Runtime: 1h 22m
- Budget: $570,000
