Your analysis and thoughts about this made me realize something… Christians see a film where they take inspiration from the Bible, but tell the story slightly differently to explore certain themes in a different way, and hate it. In some cases, like Last Temptation of Christ, they sometimes ban the film altogether (as Chile did for a while). Meanwhile, pagans, or at least more prominent ones like you, see this, where likely much of the same is being done, most likely with even greater deviation from the source material, and think “oh, this is cool. Let’s see what they do with it, it’ll probably be interesting”. I don’t know if this is widespread amongst pagans. But it’s definitely refreshing.
I have noticed the same thing, but Hollywood bastardizes everything it gets its hands on. The first time I saw the trailer I was quite excited and then I saw Nicole Kidman and immediately decided that Hollywood would be bastardizing this as well.
Single edged blades were definitely a thing. "While most Viking-Age swords are of the classic straight two-edged design, about 20% of those found in Norway are single-edged (Geibig XIV). These weapons cannot really be classified as long-saxes as they had orthodox sword-hilts. Single edged Viking swords were still in use at the end of the 9th C and early 10th C. Their nearest Medieval equivalents would be the Falchion and the großes Messer. An interesting weapon, the single-edged sword is worthy of study." Also he's holding a Langseax in the ice pick grip. Probably means to use the axe as a primary weapon while using the seax to parry.
Yes, single-edged blades are definitely a thing!!! Also, you could definitely use the seax with an icepick grip to stab downwards with, especially in tight spots, but it's much better to parry with a regular grip, increasing your range and manoeuvrability.
Also the blade in that scene isn't single edged. If you pause it, it looks like the usual double edged sword that was normal for the time. The light at that moment is just reflecting off of one edge. And, to be fair, the trailer cuts that part cut very quickly so the mistake is understandable.
The sword he holds in an ice pick grip is actually a longseaxe, which translates to "long knife" which has a single edge and a thick spine. In scottish dirk fighting the ice pick grip wood be used to block strikes and grappling.
yeah we were over-analyzing it in the discord last night. But even the proper way to use a seax is upright. It's meant to go under shields rather than to block. And even blocking is more efficient when holding upright. BUT it looks cool and has its uses. Therefore the cinematic look wins out. Which isn't necessarily bad, it's just a little overdone.
@@varangjar1544 Sadly. Seax and shield fighting is so interesting. BUT another thing that's interesting is seeing Seaxes being used in a reverse grip with a shield in late viking age art and Norman period art.
I'm not sure what I was expecting from The Northman, but suddenly all this other content comes into it, "shamanic" fire rituals lead by dudes with horned helmets, and valkyries reading towards a tree of light, and suddenly I think this is going to be my favorite movie of 2022.
This looks very good. Robert Eggers is a fantastic storyteller. He is ultra-methodical in his research, so this should be no different. He takes sources and uses them to create his own tale. The setting of the VVitch and Lighthouse, the language, the props and costumes and structures are all quite authentic, but the stories of those films are not historical. "Inspired By" is a good way to explain it. Eggers is one to keep your eye on.
That's what I love about Eggers, he's one of my favorites. He does "period pieces" that aren't exactly historical, but they bring the period to life in a way that feels authentic to what the characters in the story believe.
His films are like entering in another view of the world, an ancient one, where the sirens and the witches were real to that people. So in this film we will see magic and other beliefs of that era
Yeah some people are pointing that out. The story would likely be taking place in Jutland / Daneland, however. Amleth’s father united Jutland and Fengi is the jealous brother.
@@OceanKeltoi Did the movie start with them returning from Norway? Could stand to reason his brother picked the sword up there. A trophy of sorts. Doesn't excuse the lamellar armor of course.
I think the man leading the ritual at 15:10 is supposed represent Odin because all the men present at the ritual appear to be wearing animal skins and attempting to get ready for battle. I think that’s the case because it’s said Berserkers specifically worshipped Odin before battle and it looks like he’s missing a right eye too, but that could just be the lighting from the fire covering his eye in shadow. Also thank you for freaking out about the spear catch because damn that was badass, I hope the fight choreography in this movie is top notch, great video as always Ocean. 👍
I remember reading an Intervew of Robert Egger after he did the lighthouse. he was asked what his next project was going to be and he said he doesn't want to do another horror but really wants to make an action adventure Viking movie! I'm so happy he was able too. I don't know if you watch anime or not but have you ever watch the anime vinland saga? I would be really interested in a heathens take on it.
I think the reason the Seax is being held in a reverse grip (blade down) is due to the way it is sheathed on the belt (handle end rightside in the front). You can see that in his dominant hand is his axe, it seems far easier to draw with your support hand. Plus, axe fighting with a support blade in the opposite hand reversed and forward are both common axe fighting techniques.
Once more, a shot of the spear catch.... Ok, maybe one more time... 3 more times isn't gonna hurt anyone... Ok, just once more and I swear, after replaying it for the 300th time we can call it a day and move on. No more spear catching... until tomorrow...
People have died falling into Latrines,escaping down latrine chutes! Not hygenic ( but it's amazing what you do ? To save your Ass) And remember this was in the days of no deodorants, sails soaked in Rancid Butter?! You get it! A strong Stomach, strong period,if you were ? Shure Helped!
Great Breakdown. Eggers and Co-writer may have first intended the film to be about brothers. Bill Skarsgård was also listed in cast. There's a clip where he laments having to pull out due to schedule and covid restrictions.
Robert Eggers spoke quite specifically about making a few important geographic changes to the original story. One of which being Amleth's exile to England changing to the Caucuses region, (Ukraine, Sweden, etc.) called "Rus" in the context of the film, (where he encounters Olga) for storytelling purposes. (Because of how often we've already seen early middle age British Isles in movies, TV, etc. before.) (I'm just sayin' ✌)
Apparently it was Alexander that actually suggested to change it to Rus. Which I think is a great choice to do something different. I still hope we get a story of the Varangian guard.
This is my third time watching this video because you did such a good job! 🙌🏼 the Viking teeth carving was actually something I didn’t know, especially about the revenge stories. Thank you 🙏🏼
If one were to catch a spear in flight, that's exactly how it would be done. Not stopping it as it comes to you, but following its path and turning to catch it as it passes. One would probably use the momentum to turn and then recast it.
I would say you'd be better off using a shield to bat at it at an angle it wouldn't burry itself in the material, then you can grab it much more easily as the pace is taken off it.
I also watched the spear throw multiple times. It was awesome, interesting to know there might also be some (albeit slightly less awesome) historical accuracy to it!
Absolutely fascinating. As a Shakespeare nerd I had no idea of the origins of Hamlet. So that was exciting to hear about. But also just how you do your break down on how the old stories relate to the trailer has me wanting to learn more about these stories and myths.
Truthfully the greatest and most entertaining trailer reaction I’ve ever seen. I almost didn’t click on the video because trailer reaction videos are stupid, poorly edited and just down right lame. Not here! Not this one! You killed it! Then filleted it, seasoned it and served it with a garnish! Perfect my friend! Perfect!
Okay WOW this is my First time watching your channel, very professional scripted well. and your thoughts are expressed well. not just a slapped together show. thumbs up
A movie was made based on the Saxo Gramaticus rendering staring a young Christian Bale, with Helen Mirren playing his mother and Gabriel Byrne his murderous uncle.
15:00 - he is representing a "weapon dancer" of Odin . You see them in Germanic art across Europe a good example is on the sutton hoo helmet AKA the newly named Odin Helmet. It is said that a man will represent Odin in a ritual dance to bestow good fortunes before a battle. They are distinguished easily by their horns and spears / swords in art. The horns are actualy birds - Huggin and munnin
I think this trailer embodies what Robert Eggers does a lot (and brilliantly I might add) and that’s taking the different versions of mythology and stories people create through time and putting it into one movie. Like he’s making the movies he’s been wanting to see. The Witch does this but even more so with the lighthouse. Taking from Greek mythology, showing mermaids and even modern lore from certain lighthouses that are still up today. Can’t wait to see this movie, I’ve been watching other UA-camrs who have a broad knowledge of this kind of history and it’s always interesting to see what y’all have to say. Awesome vid!
Hey Ocean! The Odin guy in the "helmet" is a horned spear dancer! Archaeological evidence suggests this may have been a ritual used to specifically invoke or honour Woden/Odin, as we have a lot of amulets, carvings and other artistic depictions of people dressed in such a way. The believed association of Odin comes from the fact that: a) These guys are SPEAR DANCERS. Woden/Odin was heavily associated with spears, i.e. Gungnir b) Looking at older depictions and amulets, it can be seen that the helmet is actually a head dress, and the horns actually often have eyes, beaks and wings carved into them; these are birds, believed to represent Huginn and Muninn whispering into the ears of the spear dancer, who is representing Woden. It should also be noted that this is likely one of the sorces of inspiration for the commonly depicted horned helmets on vikings. I own a small horned spear dancer amulet I was able to buy for cheap from eBay, and I wear it daily alongside my Mjollnir. It's really interesting and worth looking more into, although I have to sadly say that I know of this due to watching STJ when I was new to the community and didn't know of his problematic nature. It would be cool if you could make a video on this instead, so others can find out about this awesome depiction of the Allfather without having to jump through hoops dodging STJ's content.
@@corkibuchek the welsh viking suggested that the spear dance ritual depicted here was strictly a western germanic anglo saxon practice that predated the viking age and that it was odd to include it here. the torslunda plates found in sweden, while still predating the viking age, depict the same exact ritual, thus proving that this was not strictly western germanic/anglo saxon. upon informing him of this, he responded to me saying "cool story bro". i guess some people who act like they are an authority on a subject dont like being corrected.
That was an amazing analysis! You gained a subscriber and now I’m going down a rabbit hole with all your videos! For once, the algorithm has served me well!!!
Considering spear catching/redirection: The biomechanics of spear catching would, among extreme proprioceptive interaction elements, require something only trained in martial combat & rock climbing; explosive grip strength.
The severed head imo looks just like Willem Defoe. Maybe Willem is the seer in the past when Amleth is young? And the severed head scene js from when he's older ?
Welsh Viking's analysis is amazing, dont get me wrong. I think the guy forgot more information about the Vikings this morning, than I have read in 20 years. I dont want to come off as a Debbie Downer, but if theyre playing fast and loose with physics, theyre not really trying that hard to get all the details correct.... I do love his channel though, and suggest it to everyone
The single edged sword was apparently a Norwegian thing look up the sword geibig type 14. As far as catching a spear… i hate too say it but its really easier too step aside and pick it up but here he was saving somebody so its not just showing off.
Love the review, thanks for the references too. I keep in mind any questionable scenes are most likely for sheer entertainment quality or emphasis of a given moment.
I'm hype for anything Robert Eggers. Hes said he wants to make an Alchemist movie, and a western. We know he has a knight movie, a Nosferatu remake, and a Rasputin project floating around.. and those are just the ones we KNOW about... The Lighthouse and now The Northman came literally out of fucking nowhere. I'm fine with it and I'm really happy to see him working on a larger canvas
I have just come from the Theatre, and wow this is an amazing Film, is a mix between Hamleth, Conan The Barbarian, Vikings , directed by Mr. Eggers with such a Historical Accuracy (from my perspective... ) I would really love to see a movie review in this Channel
Just a few days ago, I was witness to a real authentic Viking raid on Hollywood and the treasure that was plundered was a war chest full of golden Oscars!
Olga sounds like a slovenian name, so he might be joining the varyags. When he catches the spear, he turns around to throw it, but does not turn it around. So I guess it was just thrown to him, not at him. Remember, there is only one sharp edge on the spear. Aso, I guess there were no helmets with horns, even ritual ones, but I might be wrong...) Although, the trailer looks awesome.)
The only problem i have about the trailer breakdown is about the berserkers. While yes there were 2-3 berserkes in the spear catching scene, i dont understand why there wasnt an explanation about the differences of the berserkers and the úlfhéðinn.
Sadly Hollywood seems to be somewhat allergic to the use of polearm weapons?? 😆 Seriously though, they really do seem to be mysteriously absent in most historical epics? Spears, sure (occasionally), but any kind of polearm...? Always puzzles me. Could be wrong though, haven't extensively watched much of the earlier stuff? I wonder whether any Japanese cinema features naginata! 🤭 (Not familiar with that field of film either alas... oh to be able to afford Netflix one day! 😏)
I gave this vid a thumbs up for the simple fact you chose “might have” in the title. Going to watch it now and see if I did…. Okay, I’m back and I did indeed miss a LOT. Looking forward to seeing it even more now, thank you. PS Your section on the spear catch/throw is hilarious.
HEMA nerd here - we have, in fact, in our school once or twice trained on catching spears. That's of course not in the heat of combat, and also being thrown with an eye for catching , and also dumb as fuck let me not omit that fact - but it's a reasonably real thing, if a bit of a faff.
Excellent research/critique. You got my subscription. The damage inflicted upon true European/Mankind history by the Catholic Church have been responsible for the lack of records.
Klaus Bangg is playing the villainous uncle in this and he has absolutely stole the show ever time I've seen him cast as a bad guy, loved him as dracula in bbc drama from 2019
I don't know whether Amleth is right or left handed, but if he is right handed, he carries his primary weapon (axe) in that hand, so perhaps the inverted grip on the sword was to function as a shield. You're right, though. It looks damned cool. Love your channel.
Thank you, Ocean Keltoi for this thorough review of The Northman. When I saw the preview weeks ago, I KNEW I had to see it. (There are so damned few Norse/Viking movies that come out.) This makes me wonder if you have seen Vahalla Rising? I think I would like to see that, but am not sure. Of course, with Mads Mikkelsen starring in it, that's a big plus.
pretty good video here, it is putting this film into context for me. regarding the figure with one eye and the horned helmet and the dancers, i have seen references to this in videos by survive the jive regarding woden, when i sae the trailer i was wondering whether this figure might be woden or part of a woden cult. again this appears to show diverse influences within this film which does not appear to based on just one story but many different ideas
yeah i left a comment about this too. I hope ocean makes a video on horned spear dancers, STJ is a bit of a shit person but whenever i try to look into horned spear dancers i have to weave through a bunch of his content.
@@heftylad coming from wiltshire woden is really important to our local history, we have the wansdyke and we have waden's hill, both of which i have visited, so he is kind of important to us
In Norway it wasn’t uncommon for berserkers to use single bladed swords, there have been remnants showing swords that look strikingly like that from archaeological finds. Albion actually makes a sword inspired by that style
Your analysis and thoughts about this made me realize something…
Christians see a film where they take inspiration from the Bible, but tell the story slightly differently to explore certain themes in a different way, and hate it. In some cases, like Last Temptation of Christ, they sometimes ban the film altogether (as Chile did for a while).
Meanwhile, pagans, or at least more prominent ones like you, see this, where likely much of the same is being done, most likely with even greater deviation from the source material, and think “oh, this is cool. Let’s see what they do with it, it’ll probably be interesting”.
I don’t know if this is widespread amongst pagans. But it’s definitely refreshing.
hey Christians are pagans to but they just don't accept it
@@thirst-to-be-awaken Christianity is a sect of Judaism(even though they don't like to admit it).
I have noticed the same thing, but Hollywood bastardizes everything it gets its hands on.
The first time I saw the trailer I was quite excited and then I saw Nicole Kidman and immediately decided that Hollywood would be bastardizing this as well.
@@thors_bane I have faith that Eggers will do it justice.
Thats because we are not a pagan society with Pagan institutions who enforce ways of doing things -
Single edged blades were definitely a thing.
"While most Viking-Age swords are of the classic straight two-edged design, about 20% of those found in Norway are single-edged (Geibig XIV). These weapons cannot really be classified as long-saxes as they had orthodox sword-hilts. Single edged Viking swords were still in use at the end of the 9th C and early 10th C. Their nearest Medieval equivalents would be the Falchion and the großes Messer. An interesting weapon, the single-edged sword is worthy of study."
Also he's holding a Langseax in the ice pick grip. Probably means to use the axe as a primary weapon while using the seax to parry.
Would love to hear Skallagrims take on this
@@eedwardgrey2 he reviewed one by Albion a couple years back
Yes, single-edged blades are definitely a thing!!! Also, you could definitely use the seax with an icepick grip to stab downwards with, especially in tight spots, but it's much better to parry with a regular grip, increasing your range and manoeuvrability.
Also the blade in that scene isn't single edged. If you pause it, it looks like the usual double edged sword that was normal for the time. The light at that moment is just reflecting off of one edge. And, to be fair, the trailer cuts that part cut very quickly so the mistake is understandable.
Thanks, I was wondering about this!
Kveldulf is an awesome name. Kveld = Evening/night, Ulf = Wolf. To be named something like NightWolf is just badass...
The sword he holds in an ice pick grip is actually a longseaxe, which translates to "long knife" which has a single edge and a thick spine. In scottish dirk fighting the ice pick grip wood be used to block strikes and grappling.
yeah we were over-analyzing it in the discord last night. But even the proper way to use a seax is upright. It's meant to go under shields rather than to block. And even blocking is more efficient when holding upright. BUT it looks cool and has its uses. Therefore the cinematic look wins out. Which isn't necessarily bad, it's just a little overdone.
@@OceanKeltoi Yeah. I'm just glad they got the aesthetics and the gear of this era right.
would*
And the poor shield gets left out again.
@@varangjar1544 Sadly. Seax and shield fighting is so interesting. BUT another thing that's interesting is seeing Seaxes being used in a reverse grip with a shield in late viking age art and Norman period art.
A revenge film that's actually a good Viking movie? I can't wait.
I’m eager to see this
I'm not sure what I was expecting from The Northman, but suddenly all this other content comes into it, "shamanic" fire rituals lead by dudes with horned helmets, and valkyries reading towards a tree of light, and suddenly I think this is going to be my favorite movie of 2022.
Really appreciate how you cite stuff at the bottom of the video. Informative without being intrusive.
This looks very good. Robert Eggers is a fantastic storyteller. He is ultra-methodical in his research, so this should be no different. He takes sources and uses them to create his own tale. The setting of the VVitch and Lighthouse, the language, the props and costumes and structures are all quite authentic, but the stories of those films are not historical. "Inspired By" is a good way to explain it. Eggers is one to keep your eye on.
That's what I love about Eggers, he's one of my favorites. He does "period pieces" that aren't exactly historical, but they bring the period to life in a way that feels authentic to what the characters in the story believe.
His films are like entering in another view of the world, an ancient one, where the sirens and the witches were real to that people. So in this film we will see magic and other beliefs of that era
I think his casting is flawless, I love witch but lighthouse had mesmerised
Why did you spell witch with two vs
@@ryaniss3xy because that’s how Eggers chose to spell it. I’m assuming it’s old print and alphabet, kind of like how old S’s look like F’s.
I plan on fully supporting this film over the Netflix Valhalla's avalanche of bullshit.
There have been multiple finds of single edged Viking age swords, they seem to be most popular in Norway however
Yeah some people are pointing that out. The story would likely be taking place in Jutland / Daneland, however. Amleth’s father united Jutland and Fengi is the jealous brother.
@@OceanKeltoi Did the movie start with them returning from Norway? Could stand to reason his brother picked the sword up there. A trophy of sorts. Doesn't excuse the lamellar armor of course.
I think the man leading the ritual at 15:10 is supposed represent Odin because all the men present at the ritual appear to be wearing animal skins and attempting to get ready for battle. I think that’s the case because it’s said Berserkers specifically worshipped Odin before battle and it looks like he’s missing a right eye too, but that could just be the lighting from the fire covering his eye in shadow. Also thank you for freaking out about the spear catch because damn that was badass, I hope the fight choreography in this movie is top notch, great video as always Ocean. 👍
His costume is the one from the Sutton Hoo helmet, it’s been suggested that the depiction of a similar ritual with wolf men as depicted in the helmet.
@@thelonelyarrikirri4575 oh that’s so cool, always something new to learn from this faith and it’s history lol
I remember reading an Intervew of Robert Egger after he did the lighthouse. he was asked what his next project was going to be and he said he doesn't want to do another horror but really wants to make an action adventure Viking movie! I'm so happy he was able too.
I don't know if you watch anime or not but have you ever watch the anime vinland saga? I would be really interested in a heathens take on it.
I think the reason the Seax is being held in a reverse grip (blade down) is due to the way it is sheathed on the belt (handle end rightside in the front). You can see that in his dominant hand is his axe, it seems far easier to draw with your support hand. Plus, axe fighting with a support blade in the opposite hand reversed and forward are both common axe fighting techniques.
The chat was fun. I need to click the bell button to catch more premiers.
Once more, a shot of the spear catch.... Ok, maybe one more time... 3 more times isn't gonna hurt anyone... Ok, just once more and I swear, after replaying it for the 300th time we can call it a day and move on. No more spear catching... until tomorrow...
That spear catch and return is definitely awesome.
Death by falling into vat of mead is not something I thought I’d ever hear
People have died falling into Latrines,escaping down latrine chutes! Not hygenic ( but it's amazing what you do ? To save your Ass) And remember this was in the days of no deodorants, sails soaked in Rancid Butter?! You get it! A strong Stomach, strong period,if you were ? Shure Helped!
Great Breakdown. Eggers and Co-writer may have first intended the film to be about brothers. Bill Skarsgård was also listed in cast. There's a clip where he laments having to pull out due to schedule and covid restrictions.
Robert Eggers spoke quite specifically about making a few important geographic changes to the original story. One of which being Amleth's exile to England changing to the Caucuses region, (Ukraine, Sweden, etc.) called "Rus" in the context of the film, (where he encounters Olga) for storytelling purposes. (Because of how often we've already seen early middle age British Isles in movies, TV, etc. before.)
(I'm just sayin' ✌)
Apparently it was Alexander that actually suggested to change it to Rus. Which I think is a great choice to do something different. I still hope we get a story of the Varangian guard.
This is my third time watching this video because you did such a good job! 🙌🏼 the Viking teeth carving was actually something I didn’t know, especially about the revenge stories. Thank you 🙏🏼
Tbh I would see this film based on the spear catch and release alone
Rrriiiggghhhttt!!! Epic!
Fire Ritual is almost exactly as shown on Torlsunda plates, with dancer in horned helmet and two spears. It seems Eggers made his homework.
I have a hoodie with the Torslunda pattern. It’s my favorite.
Super cool how much detail you pulled from the historical references. Thanks for putting this together!
If one were to catch a spear in flight, that's exactly how it would be done. Not stopping it as it comes to you, but following its path and turning to catch it as it passes. One would probably use the momentum to turn and then recast it.
I would say you'd be better off using a shield to bat at it at an angle it wouldn't burry itself in the material, then you can grab it much more easily as the pace is taken off it.
Caesar mentions the Belgae catching spears in the air and throwing them back at the Romans. See Caesar, The Gallic Wars.
I’m so happy you showed the spear catch as much as you did it was glorious
That spear catch.........
I like your attitude towards the film. It may not follow a particular story and may not be totally accurate, but you’re willing to be entertained.
I also watched the spear throw multiple times. It was awesome, interesting to know there might also be some (albeit slightly less awesome) historical accuracy to it!
Did you notice that he throws it on reversed?
@@ilsederidder6145 shit. 2 seconds to turn it. Now the take is ruined.
Are you sure this isn't Eric Northman's origin story??? #TrueBlood
I was wondering the same thing too. lol
Absolutely fascinating. As a Shakespeare nerd I had no idea of the origins of Hamlet. So that was exciting to hear about. But also just how you do your break down on how the old stories relate to the trailer has me wanting to learn more about these stories and myths.
Norse Sagas are great. They're like the Michael Bay films of the medieval era
You did a good job again ocean
Truthfully the greatest and most entertaining trailer reaction I’ve ever seen. I almost didn’t click on the video because trailer reaction videos are stupid, poorly edited and just down right lame. Not here! Not this one! You killed it! Then filleted it, seasoned it and served it with a garnish! Perfect my friend! Perfect!
Okay WOW this is my First time watching your channel, very professional scripted well. and your thoughts are expressed well. not just a slapped together show. thumbs up
15:02 most likely relates to the belived Spear dancing dedicated to Odin or Wodan.
Is'nt Fjoelnir another of Odin's many names? It certainly comes up in the Heilung's Alfadhirhaiti.
A movie was made based on the Saxo Gramaticus rendering staring a young Christian Bale, with Helen Mirren playing his mother and Gabriel Byrne his murderous uncle.
15:00 - he is representing a "weapon dancer" of Odin . You see them in Germanic art across Europe a good example is on the sutton hoo helmet AKA the newly named Odin Helmet. It is said that a man will represent Odin in a ritual dance to bestow good fortunes before a battle. They are distinguished easily by their horns and spears / swords in art. The horns are actualy birds - Huggin and munnin
I think this trailer embodies what Robert Eggers does a lot (and brilliantly I might add) and that’s taking the different versions of mythology and stories people create through time and putting it into one movie. Like he’s making the movies he’s been wanting to see. The Witch does this but even more so with the lighthouse. Taking from Greek mythology, showing mermaids and even modern lore from certain lighthouses that are still up today. Can’t wait to see this movie, I’ve been watching other UA-camrs who have a broad knowledge of this kind of history and it’s always interesting to see what y’all have to say. Awesome vid!
Hey Ocean! The Odin guy in the "helmet" is a horned spear dancer! Archaeological evidence suggests this may have been a ritual used to specifically invoke or honour Woden/Odin, as we have a lot of amulets, carvings and other artistic depictions of people dressed in such a way.
The believed association of Odin comes from the fact that:
a) These guys are SPEAR DANCERS. Woden/Odin was heavily associated with spears, i.e. Gungnir
b) Looking at older depictions and amulets, it can be seen that the helmet is actually a head dress, and the horns actually often have eyes, beaks and wings carved into them; these are birds, believed to represent Huginn and Muninn whispering into the ears of the spear dancer, who is representing Woden. It should also be noted that this is likely one of the sorces of inspiration for the commonly depicted horned helmets on vikings.
I own a small horned spear dancer amulet I was able to buy for cheap from eBay, and I wear it daily alongside my Mjollnir. It's really interesting and worth looking more into, although I have to sadly say that I know of this due to watching STJ when I was new to the community and didn't know of his problematic nature. It would be cool if you could make a video on this instead, so others can find out about this awesome depiction of the Allfather without having to jump through hoops dodging STJ's content.
Exactly correct! Ocean Keltoi should check out the Torslunda plates! They show both the horned dancer and a berserker.
I suppose being the superior scholar is problematic these days
@@charlieshoestring7900 Associating with literal neonazis, pushing a sentiment of white power and antisemitism are problematic.
@@charlieshoestring7900 almost liked this dudes comment before I saw that smh
@@corkibuchek the welsh viking suggested that the spear dance ritual depicted here was strictly a western germanic anglo saxon practice that predated the viking age and that it was odd to include it here. the torslunda plates found in sweden, while still predating the viking age, depict the same exact ritual, thus proving that this was not strictly western germanic/anglo saxon. upon informing him of this, he responded to me saying "cool story bro". i guess some people who act like they are an authority on a subject dont like being corrected.
That was an amazing analysis! You gained a subscriber and now I’m going down a rabbit hole with all your videos! For once, the algorithm has served me well!!!
Great video again! 10/10
I was completely blindsided by that trailer joke, dammit. 😆
Considering spear catching/redirection:
The biomechanics of spear catching would, among extreme proprioceptive interaction elements, require something only trained in martial combat & rock climbing; explosive grip strength.
that spear catch was worth the price of entry alone. saw it twice in the cinema this week. it is fucking epic
That Volcano scene is the chocalalte and cherry ontop of the sunday... Bravo The Northman writers.. Bravo!!
Really interesting breakdown. Looking forward to seeing this movie.
The severed head imo looks just like Willem Defoe. Maybe Willem is the seer in the past when Amleth is young? And the severed head scene js from when he's older ?
your energy is great in this revuew,,thanks for an awesome video ..spearcatching; the new sport
Wow! Fantastic presentation
Unless he is a berserker for this movie, un-horsing someone at a full gallup, and not dislocating your shoulder should be close to impossible
Welsh Viking's analysis is amazing, dont get me wrong. I think the guy forgot more information about the Vikings this morning, than I have read in 20 years. I dont want to come off as a Debbie Downer, but if theyre playing fast and loose with physics, theyre not really trying that hard to get all the details correct....
I do love his channel though, and suggest it to everyone
The single edged sword was apparently a Norwegian thing look up the sword geibig type 14. As far as catching a spear… i hate too say it but its really easier too step aside and pick it up but here he was saving somebody so its not just showing off.
Thanks! I’ll definitely look into it.
@@OceanKeltoi my obscure sword fixation is useful!
@@doktordanomite9105 heck yes it was. I get to learn a thing.
Love the review, thanks for the references too. I keep in mind any questionable scenes are most likely for sheer entertainment quality or emphasis of a given moment.
I'm hype for anything Robert Eggers. Hes said he wants to make an Alchemist movie, and a western. We know he has a knight movie, a Nosferatu remake, and a Rasputin project floating around.. and those are just the ones we KNOW about... The Lighthouse and now The Northman came literally out of fucking nowhere. I'm fine with it and I'm really happy to see him working on a larger canvas
I am delighted to know that I am not the only one to have watched the spear shot over and over again.
I have just come from the Theatre, and wow this is an amazing Film, is a mix between Hamleth, Conan The Barbarian, Vikings , directed by Mr. Eggers with such a Historical Accuracy (from my perspective... ) I would really love to see a movie review in this Channel
Just a few days ago, I was witness to a real authentic Viking raid on Hollywood and the treasure that was plundered was a war chest full of golden Oscars!
My excitement for this movie increases the more I watch the trailer, and your analysis only compounds it further!
During the ritual dance I kept thinking of Boba Fett joining the Sand People.
Instead of being a psychological thriller, dude made a fun action thriller. Thumbs up all around.
Olga sounds like a slovenian name, so he might be joining the varyags.
When he catches the spear, he turns around to throw it, but does not turn it around. So I guess it was just thrown to him, not at him. Remember, there is only one sharp edge on the spear.
Aso, I guess there were no helmets with horns, even ritual ones, but I might be wrong...)
Although, the trailer looks awesome.)
The only problem i have about the trailer breakdown is about the berserkers. While yes there were 2-3 berserkes in the spear catching scene, i dont understand why there wasnt an explanation about the differences of the berserkers and the úlfhéðinn.
Great information
The severed head looks like it might be Willem Dafoes character
Cool trailer I just wish they had featured some kind of long arm weapon. Ya know like a pike of some kind. Oh well.
Sadly Hollywood seems to be somewhat allergic to the use of polearm weapons?? 😆 Seriously though, they really do seem to be mysteriously absent in most historical epics? Spears, sure (occasionally), but any kind of polearm...? Always puzzles me. Could be wrong though, haven't extensively watched much of the earlier stuff?
I wonder whether any Japanese cinema features naginata! 🤭 (Not familiar with that field of film either alas... oh to be able to afford Netflix one day! 😏)
So fun to watch and learn from you!
awesome video! One detail, i THINK the dead head hold by the seer may be the head of willem defoe's character, who talks to amleth when his young.
Great job on what looks really cool.
"I wanna see it again"
Love it dude. :)
Sick review...thanks for the insight!
This movie was absolutely a masterpiece
I can't wait for this to come to the theaters.
it is looks a cool and interesting movie
This movie looks epic, and has a hel of a pedigree. Super excited.
And let's see that catch again.
That catch was BASDASS!!! But honestly my first thought was “B.S.”
Dang it Ocean your opening joke killed me... again...
I like how Scandinavians roll their R's
I’ll definitely be thinking of everything you said while I watch the film. Thanks for getting me excited then I already was🤘🏽
I'm so fuckin ready for this movie!
You gain my follow with the catch of the spear.....
So, interesting thought on the spear catch, for him to throw the spear as he did someone would have had to toss the back end at him.
I gave this vid a thumbs up for the simple fact you chose “might have” in the title. Going to watch it now and see if I did….
Okay, I’m back and I did indeed miss a LOT. Looking forward to seeing it even more now, thank you.
PS Your section on the spear catch/throw is hilarious.
the sword looks like some hybrid of the stereotypical viking sword and a seax
Well spoken and broken down. Best wishes.
HEMA nerd here - we have, in fact, in our school once or twice trained on catching spears. That's of course not in the heat of combat, and also being thrown with an eye for catching , and also dumb as fuck let me not omit that fact - but it's a reasonably real thing, if a bit of a faff.
Excellent research/critique. You got my subscription. The damage inflicted upon true European/Mankind history by the Catholic Church have been responsible for the lack of records.
Klaus Bangg is playing the villainous uncle in this and he has absolutely stole the show ever time I've seen him cast as a bad guy, loved him as dracula in bbc drama from 2019
Or the skull could be in reference to Yorick. Alas, we knew him....
Okay, where do I get a vat of mead big enough for someone to fall into?
And how many islands must I pillage to afford it?
Capture all the Beekeepers?! That's a Fuckin Lot of Honey,to ferment?!
I don't know whether Amleth is right or left handed, but if he is right handed, he carries his primary weapon (axe) in that hand, so perhaps the inverted grip on the sword was to function as a shield. You're right, though. It looks damned cool. Love your channel.
Thank you, Ocean Keltoi for this thorough review of The Northman. When I saw the preview weeks ago, I KNEW I had to see it. (There are so damned few Norse/Viking movies that come out.) This makes me wonder if you have seen Vahalla Rising? I think I would like to see that, but am not sure. Of course, with Mads Mikkelsen starring in it, that's a big plus.
I was really hoping you were going to do something like this and you did xD christ..err yule came early ? O_o
At 8:45, is that a Vegvisir on the seers forehead?
Yes which isnt remotely Viking age lol
That's why I wondered wtf it was doing there lol
because it looks cool. It's from much later than the viking age but people still associate it with the period for some reason.
pretty good video here, it is putting this film into context for me. regarding the figure with one eye and the horned helmet and the dancers, i have seen references to this in videos by survive the jive regarding woden, when i sae the trailer i was wondering whether this figure might be woden or part of a woden cult. again this appears to show diverse influences within this film which does not appear to based on just one story but many different ideas
yeah i left a comment about this too. I hope ocean makes a video on horned spear dancers, STJ is a bit of a shit person but whenever i try to look into horned spear dancers i have to weave through a bunch of his content.
@@heftylad coming from wiltshire woden is really important to our local history, we have the wansdyke and we have waden's hill, both of which i have visited, so he is kind of important to us
The Sword caught my eye first time i saw the trailer. I thought it was maybe something taken from a raid to the East or something.
In Norway it wasn’t uncommon for berserkers to use single bladed swords, there have been remnants showing swords that look strikingly like that from archaeological finds. Albion actually makes a sword inspired by that style
I just saw it. Best movie I’ve seen in two decades.
Claes Bang is actually listed as Feng on Wikipedia cast but Fjolnir on IMDB.
That's interesting. It's apparent though with the chant in the trailer that Fjolnir is the name they're going with.
I reckon the blond helmets woman screaming is a valkyrie