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The Ash Lad: In the Hall of the Mountain King
Askeladden - I Dovregubbens hall
2017 100 min Czech Republic, Ireland, Norway 6+
★6.6
Adventure, Fantasy
Director: Mikkel Brænne Sandemose
Trailers
EN
EN
Description
Espen “Ash Lad”, a poor farmer’s son, embarks on a dangerous quest with his brothers to save the princess from a vile troll known as the Mountain King – in order to collect a reward and save his family’s farm from ruin.
Worldwide:
$4.52M
Starring
Vebjørn Enger
Actor
Mads Sjøgård Pettersen
Actor
Elias Holmen Sørensen
Actor
Awards
4 nominations total
Key opinion
Askeladden - I Dovregubbens hall is a visually arresting Norwegian fantasy that successfully updates classic folklore into an engaging family adventure. While most critics praise its authentic atmosphere and craft, some viewers find its narrative simplicity and character development lacking compared to mainstream standards.
| Production | Striking cinematography and production design effectively bring Norwegian landscapes and folklore to life. | |
| Score | The score utilizes authentic Norwegian folk music and leitmotifs to deepen the film's immersive, cultural atmosphere. | |
| Acting | The performances, particularly from the lead actors, provide a grounded and charming center to the whimsical narrative. | |
| Accessibility | The film’s accessible, childlike tone makes it an engaging experience for younger viewers, while adult audiences are divided on whether this simplicity feels refreshing or intellectually thin. | |
| Screenplay | Opinions on the screenplay are split: supporters appreciate the clever integration of folkloric twists, while detractors dismiss the plot as nonsensical and the character motivations as poorly executed. |