Í skugga hrafnsins

The Shadow of the Raven is bigger in scope and conception than the only other Icelandic film of its kind (Outlaw: Gisli's Saga). It portrays not only a feud between two families, but the conflict in medieval Iceland between the ancient pagan religion and encroaching Christianity. Naturally, the advocates of Christianity use it for their own political purposes. The other big themes of medieval literature are there as well: conflict of loyalties, treachery by trusted friends, romantic attraction between enemies, and revenge against all odds. The film makes some concessions to modern cinematic conventions - the dialog is not always as terse and ironic as you find in the sagas. But the film is still very authentic, and the action (though it flows from the characters and situations) is not easily predictable.

Compared to the first episode of the saga (although the plot has nothing to do with this one's) - it's obvious there's more budget, and that makes for much better camera work and costumes.

Also, (and although budget shouldn't have anything to do with it), now there's a plot. The same theme (revenge) is treated in a much more interesting way here. One key way in which this movie is more effective is that we get to know the character(s) before they die. We see treason. Therefore when the main character wants revenge, it doesn't seem completely gratuitous: We actually understand his motives and even root for him.

The "Christianity in Iceland" theme, which was already here in the precedent movie, is also much more interestingly developed. Trausti is a believable "convert": He professes his Christianity and he wants to believe in "Jesus Christ" but in the end he is a Norseman who (presumably) grew up with Nordic beliefs. He believes in Vengeance, he believes in Jesus Christ but isn't entirely indifferent to Odin (and for someone raised in a polytheistic faith this is only natural).

It doesn't hurt that (most of) the first movie's ridiculous synth-peruvian-flute score has been abandoned in favour of more time-appropriate medieval tunes. The camera work is also much better, with beautiful landscapes and the feeling that Iceland is bigger than *that one shore*.

All around a surprisingly good movie (even though the best Viking movie around in my opinion still is, by far, Utlaginn).

I just saw the movie here at Rice University. I was very lucky because the director was here with us brought by our English Department. He was very kind to share stories and anecdotes about the movie and answer our questions. I must admit I am very biased because I'm in love with Iceland but if there others over there like me, we do need to see this movie. Gee...I'm still in the XI century with all that people fighting against that landscape and those brave men. Anyways, it was very nice to talk to the director (the Icelandic consul was here as well) but I'm serious, the movie is really, really powerful. Excellent. Who wants to see the Lord of the Rings after this?????

I don't know if you've ever seen a movie about vikings, but as far as i know they are few. Of those I've seen this and the one before (korpen flyger) and i think that they are the only "true" viking movies up to this point.

This movie has pretty bad image and sound quality which is understandable since its old. But it wins my heart for it's story, it follows a kind of norm in viking tales, basically an eye for an eye. This movie is a follow-up on the story told in "Korpen flyger" so that one should be watched first in my opinion.

I am no expert in vikings or history but i have read a lot about them and many sagas (if not all) from the "Edda", anyways i liked this movie because it feels natural and real.

Some warnings though:

1. It may not be so interesting for you if you're not interested in vikings.

2. They speak Icelandic and the one i saw had Swedish subtitles only, so beware, you may not understand a word.

I saw this movie about 10 years ago in Cincinnati under the title "Shadow of the Raven." It was subtitled, obviously, and it was an excellent movie. I would love to see it again. I wonder if it will ever come out on video? It is such a shame that great movies like this are so quickly "forgotten."