The Last Viking

Its humane message is potent even though it comes in the offbeat package of this gleeful, violent but entirely successful dark comedy.

The Last Viking elegantly juxtaposes the ludicrousness of the situation (one of the funniest side plots is Werner’s avid Beatle fandom and his apparently sincere belief that this makeshift band is going to deliver high quality covers) with the trauma that underscores the ridiculousness events.

A big-hearted fable of self-actualization, tolerance, and togetherness.

With The Last Viking, Danish star, screenwriter and occasional director Anders Thomas Jensen (Adam’s Apples, Riders of Justice) brings another one of his blackly comic, absurdly violent tales to the screen with enviable ease.

The definition of an oddball, Manfred / John is a brilliant character for Mads Mikkelsen to experiment with; mostly, it’s a role that’s not physical in a way that showcases the actor’s plasticity. He’s a bespectacled middle-aged man who’s timid and quiet until he’s volatile and hysterical––a surprisingly infantile character that brings out of Mikkelsen something we’re not used to seeing.

Mads Mikkelsen and Nikolaj Lie Kaas give terrific performances and the film’s wild mix of dark comedy, absurdity, and emotional moments keeps it endlessly engaging. Its visuals, sound design, and uniquely Scandinavian humor create a memorable cinematic experience.