A well made film worth seeing

Rating: Null/10 (23 November 2000)

"The Norseman" with Lee Majors was the last viking picture I saw;it must be the worst films ever made. So, my expectations were not high for this motion picture, which I now admit is a handsomely produced action film. Appropriating it's theme from "Seven Samurai" (excellent source material), the tale quickly establishes the principles. While Antonio Banderas is the star, he remains part of an assemble cast which is comprised of mostly unknown actors apparently cast for their burly, Scandinavian appearance. During the journey north, the screenplay uses a novel approach to solve the language barrier. Banderas, an arab, speaks English from the start. The norseman communicate in some Scandinavian tongue. As they travel together, Banderas learns the language of the vikings. At this point, the film makes the complete transition to English. Also noteworthy, is the usage of Old English, or an approximation of such, and an absence of modern behavior. Something that served to undermine the seriousness of "Elizabeth". Once our heroes reach the village that requires protection, the film does not introduce diversionary subplots or needless insight of their enemy. The villainous horde is frightening. Donning bear skins, they are cannibals, which affords itself to a couple graphic gore scenes. The film employs great cinematograph, capturing the cold, isolated landscape perfectly. McTiernan directions are appropriately low-key, never using the rapid editing style associated with films of this genre. 3 out of 4 stars.