Max Manus: Man of War
Max Manus: Man of War

Movie spotlight

Max Manus: Man of War

2008
Movie
118 min
Norwegian

Max Manus is a Norwegian 2008 biographic war film based on the real events of the life of resistance fighter Max Manus (1914–96), after his contribution in the Winter War against the Soviet Union. The story follows Manus through the outbreak of World War II in Norway until peacetime in 1945.

Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Google Users80%
Director: Joachim Rønning, Espen SandbergGenres: Action, Biography, Drama, History, War

Plot Summary

In German-occupied Norway during World War II, Max Manus, a promising young man, becomes a key figure in the Norwegian resistance movement. Initially involved in petty crime, he is galvanized by the occupation and joins forces with fellow patriots to wage a daring and often brutal fight against the Nazis. The film chronicles his journey from an ordinary citizen to a legendary saboteur, highlighting his personal struggles and the immense sacrifices made by the resistance.

Critical Reception

Max Manus: Man of War was a critical and commercial success in Norway, praised for its thrilling action sequences, historical accuracy, and strong performances. It was lauded for bringing a significant piece of Norwegian history to life with a modern cinematic sensibility. Internationally, it received generally positive reviews, with critics often noting its effectiveness as a war film and a biographical drama, though some found its pacing occasionally uneven.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its gripping action and portrayal of Norwegian resistance heroes.

  • Commended for its historical context and strong lead performance.

  • Some found the narrative pacing to be inconsistent at times.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's portrayal of bravery and historical significance, with many highlighting the exciting action sequences and the compelling story of resistance against oppression. Audience reviews often noted its success in depicting a lesser-known aspect of World War II history with a modern flair.

Awards & Accolades

Won 5 Amanda Awards (Norwegian national film awards) including Best Actor (Aksel Hennie) and Best Supporting Actress (Agnes Kittelsen). Nominated for 10 Amanda Awards.

Fun Fact

The film was Norway's most expensive production at the time of its release, with a budget of approximately 90 million Norwegian kroner.

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