A Mythic retelling of Beowulf. Cool!!!

Rating: 9/10 (26 December 2000)

The 13th Warrior is mythic, compelling, powerful and moving--a cross between Beowulf and the Seven Samurai. I found it violent, yes, which is hard for me because I am a very tender-hearted viewer. (Jane Austen is more my usual fare.) A second viewing was worth the time. It let me see the scenes I couldn't watch the first time, and gave me greater appreciation for the myth and saga of it all. It has a fresh perspective, spare narrative, excellent performances and crisp pacing. The designers did a vivid job of creating mysterious, distant cultures. Hollywood movies are not used to cold, mist, mud, pine forests and giant blonde and red-haired pagans--I relished the look of the film. I loved the development of the Northman--from strange raw brutes to courageous, noble warriors and friends. The movie is uncompromising in its depiction of Viking life. A gem of a film. I'm going to buy a copy. Its worth seeing more than twice.