Nr. 24

I have seen countless World War II-focused films. Let's just say, I watch virtually anything and everything that is released that features World War II stories.

So I would say that Number 24 is not your standard Second World War film. In stumbling upon this picture on Netflix, I never anticipated that I would come away feeling that Number 24 was one of the most compelling World War II films I have ever seen.

Number 24 brilliantly presents the most challenging of moral dilemmas that so often face combatants in war, especially a war as horrific as World War II.

For those who appreciate World War II films, I offer Number 24 my highest recommendation.

Bravo.

Resistance in the face of tyranny is one of those topics that can make for truly great filmmaking, especially when the subject is timely (as many would contend it is currently). And the latest offering from director John Andreas Andersen serves up an inspiring and engaging tale in that vein. The film follows the experience of Norwegian resistance fighter Gunnar Sønsteby (1918-2012) (Sjur Vatne Brean) in his courageous efforts to take on Nazi invaders who took over his homeland during World War II. Working under the code name Number 24 with a band of longtime friends under the direction of British special forces and the Norwegian government in exile in the UK, Sønsteby coordinated and led an array of raids on German assets in Norway, often at great risk and tremendous personal cost. He also frequently found himself wrestling with his conscience, especially when it came to confronting fellow countrymen who had become Third Reich collaborators, including some individuals he knew personally. Sønsteby's heroic exploits are presented through a series of flashbacks delivered through a lecture given to students at his alma mater in which his elder self (Erik Hivju) details a variety of these wartime incidents and attempts to answer probing questions from young audience members seeking to understand his motivations and intents in carrying out this mission. The film thus examines the conflicted feelings that he and other peace-loving Norwegians had to contend with at a time when their lives, freedoms and national sovereignty were very much on the line. Andersen does a highly capable job in telling the story of this much-celebrated national hero, even if the narrative is somewhat episodic at times, particularly in picture's sometimes-meandering opening half hour. Nevertheless, "Number 24" effectively relates an aspect of World War II little known outside of Scandinavia, letting the world know of the bravery of a civil society that rose to the occasion when their liberty and autonomy were threatened in the face of brutal, unrelenting treachery. It's a lesson we should all take to heart, especially when these conditions loom and place us in a position of vulnerability. Indeed, we should all take heed of the message of this important cautionary tale.

Saw this at a sneak premiere at Bergen Kino tonight (29/10-24) presented by the director and main actor.. This movie tells the story about one of Norways most famous resistance fighter(s) and it does it as well as it could possibly do.

I'm not a person who let my emotions take the best of me but this movie hit me quite hard.

I struggled with not crying in many scenes and the whole movie is a rollercoaster of how a war movie can and should be.

It's based on Gunnar "Kjakan" Sønstebys life during WW2 and the German occupation of Norway.

As a veteran myself, I was stunned by the realism, the choices they had to make and also the moral aspects of the movie.

Is it okay to kill one nazi individual when the consequences are ten or more other Norwegians killed by the nazis as revenge?

Just watch this movie! Truly one of the best Norwegian movies ever made.

And that includes the original "9 liv".

The best Norwegian war movie ever!!!

Subtle, delicate, true Scandinavian style.

A touching real story, presented in a non cliché way.

Went for it on a random Friday night, with zero expectations, but ended up surprisingly engaged ever since the beginning, and eventually sobbing at the end of it.

Sjur Vatne Brean gives a compelling performance and I believe that he managed to embrace successfully the core of Gunnar Sønsteby's personality and show it on screen.

A breath a fresh air on the scene of WWII-themed movies. A must-watch for everyone interested in this part of modern history or just a fan of some good Scandinavian cinema.

I have to admit, I'm not usually a big fan of Scandinavian movies. But when I saw Number 24 on Netflix today, I thought, "Why not give it a try?" I'm so glad I did!

The movie exceeded my expectations with its sharp dialogues, well-developed characters, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. It felt like every detail was perfectly crafted.

As someone from Southern Europe, I don't know much about World War II in Scandinavia, but this film offered a fresh perspective. The cinematography was stunning, and the storytelling was so engaging.

It's a must-watch! I'd give it a solid 9/10. Bravo to the creators!