
02/28/2025
🎬Against the Ice (2022)
Against the Ice (2022), directed by Peter Flinth, is a gripping survival drama based on the true story of Danish explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen. Set in 1909, the film follows Mikkelsen (played by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) and his inexperienced crew member, Iver Iversen (Joe Cole), as they embark on a treacherous expedition in Greenland. Their mission: to retrieve crucial cartographic evidence that could prove Denmark's claim over a disputed Arctic territory, challenging the U.S. claim to northeastern Greenland.
The film captures the relentless brutality of the Arctic, immersing viewers in its freezing landscapes and unforgiving conditions. Flinth’s direction emphasizes the psychological strain of isolation, as Mikkelsen and Iversen endure months of loneliness, hunger, and the creeping effects of frostbite and hallucinations. The cinematography, with vast snow-covered vistas and eerie silence, effectively conveys the duo’s increasing desperation.
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau delivers a compelling performance as Mikkelsen, portraying the explorer’s unwavering determination alongside moments of vulnerability. Joe Cole, as Iversen, provides a strong counterbalance with his youthful enthusiasm and resilience. Their evolving camaraderie is a highlight of the film, shifting from mutual distrust to a deep, almost brotherly bond as they battle against nature and their own fears.
While the film successfully builds tension and atmosphere, it does lean heavily on familiar survival tropes, and some critics felt that the pacing slows in the second half. However, the authenticity of the story and the emotional depth of the performances help compensate for these shortcomings.
Overall, Against the Ice is a gripping survival thriller that combines breathtaking visuals with strong performances. Though it may not reinvent the genre, it offers a harrowing and emotionally engaging tale of endurance, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of historical adventure films.