The 12th Man (2017), directed by Harald Zwart, is a gripping World War II survival drama based on the remarkable true story of Jan Baalsrud, a Norwegian resistance fighter who endured an extraordinary ordeal after a sabotage mission went awry. This Norwegian-English production is a tale of human resilience, courage, and the enduring will to survive under unimaginable circumstances. Here’s an in-depth review:

Plot Summary

Set in 1943 during Nazi-occupied Norway, the film follows a group of Norwegian resistance fighters attempting to sabotage German military operations. When their mission is compromised, eleven members of the group are captured and executed, but Jan Baalsrud (Thomas Gullestad) manages to escape. What follows is an astonishing story of survival as Baalsrud embarks on a harrowing journey across the frozen wilderness of Norway, evading Nazi forces led by the relentless Gestapo officer Kurt Stage (Jonathan Rhys Meyers).

Baalsrud’s escape is nothing short of miraculous: he faces freezing temperatures, life-threatening injuries, snowstorms, and the constant threat of capture. Along the way, he receives help from brave locals who risk their lives to protect him, making his survival a testament to both individual grit and collective resistance against tyranny.

Themes and Emotional Core

At its heart, The 12th Man is a story about the indomitable human spirit. It explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the courage of ordinary people who stood against oppression. Jan Baalsrud’s journey is not only physical but also psychological, as he battles despair and the temptation to give up in the face of overwhelming odds.

The film also highlights the moral bravery of the Norwegian villagers who assist Baalsrud, emphasizing the communal resistance to Nazi rule. Their courage underscores the importance of solidarity in the fight for freedom, even at great personal cost.

Performances

Thomas Gullestad, in his debut film role, delivers a phenomenal performance as Jan Baalsrud. His portrayal is raw and intensely physical, convincingly capturing the pain, desperation, and sheer determination of a man pushed to his limits. Gullestad underwent significant physical transformation for the role, losing weight to realistically portray Baalsrud’s physical deterioration.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers brings a chilling intensity to his role as Kurt Stage, the Gestapo officer obsessed with capturing Baalsrud. His performance adds a palpable sense of danger, making the cat-and-mouse dynamic between the two characters deeply engaging.

The supporting cast, particularly the Norwegian villagers, adds depth and humanity to the story. Their moments of quiet heroism are as moving as Baalsrud’s extraordinary struggle.

Cinematography and Atmosphere

The film’s cinematography, led by Geir Hartly Andreassen, is breathtaking. The stark, frozen landscapes of Norway are both beautiful and brutal, mirroring Baalsrud’s struggle against nature. Wide shots of snow-covered mountains and icy fjords emphasize the scale of Baalsrud’s journey and his insignificance against the vast wilderness.

The sound design and score complement the visuals, heightening the tension and immersing the audience in the harsh, unforgiving environment. The howling wind and crunch of snow underfoot become ever-present reminders of Baalsrud’s isolation and the peril he faces.

Pacing and Direction

Harald Zwart expertly balances action, tension, and introspection. The film’s pacing allows the audience to fully experience the grueling nature of Baalsrud’s journey while maintaining a steady rhythm of suspense. The narrative seamlessly transitions between Baalsrud’s perspective and the Nazi pursuit, creating a dual-layered tension that keeps viewers on edge.

Some moments may feel prolonged, especially during the quieter stretches of Baalsrud’s journey, but these sequences serve to underscore the monotony and suffering of his ordeal. The focus on realism and detail makes his survival all the more miraculous.

Historical Accuracy and Legacy

While some artistic liberties are taken for dramatic effect, The 12th Man stays true to the essence of Jan Baalsrud’s story. His incredible survival has become a symbol of Norwegian resistance and courage during World War II. The film honors his legacy and sheds light on the sacrifices of those who fought against Nazi occupation, often at great personal risk.

Conclusion

The 12th Man is a powerful and harrowing survival drama that captures the resilience of the human spirit against overwhelming odds. Thomas Gullestad’s compelling performance, combined with stunning cinematography and a gripping narrative, makes it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and war films. It is not just a tale of one man’s extraordinary endurance but also a tribute to the countless unsung heroes of World War II who risked everything for freedom.

With its poignant storytelling and breathtaking visuals, The 12th Man stands out as a cinematic testament to courage, sacrifice, and the will to survive.