Black Crab (film)

Black Crab or Svartkrutt is a crime thriller-drama, directed and co-written by the Norwegian director and screenwriter, Boerge Haukaa. The movie, set in the unforgiving and unfriendly landscapes of the Norwegian mountains, portrays a gripping tale of revenge, redemption, and resistance against tyranny. The film had its world premiere at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival, where it received wide critical acclaim for its visual aesthetics, soundtrack, and enthralling plot.

The plot follows the life of a soldier, Mikkel (played by Torgny Aanderaa), suffering from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after serving his country in Afghanistan. He returns to his hometown to help his estranged sister, Trine (played by Ingrid Bolsø Berdal), after she suffers from domestic violence by her abusive husband. However, the attempt to reconcile with his sister turns into a nightmare, as Mikkel is dragged into a terrifying confrontation with a local drug trafficking gang led by the ruthless Kurt (played by Nikolai Cleve Broch). As the plot progresses, Mikkel finds himself caught between the horrors of his war memories and the reality of his current situation. He must rely on his instincts and combat skills to protect his sister and himself from a group of heavily armed, lethal criminals.

Black Crab offers an intriguing interpretation of the quintessential “hero” in action movies. Mikkel is not the typical macho, invincible action hero; instead, he is a vulnerable, flawed character that the audience can empathize with. The movie uses flashbacks and hallucinations of Mikkel’s tour in Afghanistan to depict the distressing aftermath of war trauma. This portrayal not only humanizes the character but also highlights the devastating impact of warfare on the minds of soldiers. Moreover, Mikkel’s portrayal as a survivor of PTSD resonates with the struggle of countless soldiers worldwide, who face extreme challenges to adapt to civilian life after their military service.

Furthermore, Black Crab is a powerful commentary on the scourge of drug trafficking in rural communities. The portrayal of Kurt and his gang’s illicit activities as a form of authoritative imposition on the local population is a stark reminder of how organized crime thrives on exploiting the vulnerable sections of society. I noticed that the film portrays all the characters with intricate shades of realism, especially in the case of the villainous Kurt. Unlike many other films that depict the antagonist as a one-dimensional character with no sense of morality, Black Crab’s portrayal of Kurt offers a more nuanced take. While the audience ultimately roots for Mikkel’s success, Kurt’s character is given adequate depth beyond his wickedness- portraying his motivations and morals in a grey area, and causing viewers to reflect on his creation.

The movie’s visual aesthetics are undeniably stunning, with the Norwegian landscape serving as a breathtaking backdrop for the tale. The hauntingly beautiful cinematography, coupled with the excellent use of sound and music, creates an atmosphere of looming dread and emotional intensity. The soundtrack’s fusion of traditional Norwegian instruments, such as the Hardanger fiddle, with contemporary sounds, adds an authentic and unique appeal to the film.

Overall, Black Crab is a riveting movie experience that offers a refreshing take on the traditional action movie genre. The film’s ability to blend action, drama, and commentary on real-world issues creates a unique and enthralling cinematic experience. The cohesive and well-rounded writing and direction by Boerge Haukaa, coupled with the fantastic performances by the cast, make Black Crab a must-watch for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally satisfying cinematic experience. It’s a tale of courage, redemption, and the power to overcome obstacles that will leave you reeling, hopeful, and inspired.