Title: The 12th Man (Den 12. mann) Release Year: 2017 Genre: War / Drama / Thriller Language: Norwegian / English Resolution: 1080p (BluRay)
Based on the true story of Jan Baalsrud, The 12th Man tells the harrowing tale of a Norwegian resistance fighter during World War II. In 1943, a group of 12 saboteurs sail from Scotland to Nazi-occupied Norway with orders to destroy German military installations. However, they are betrayed and ambushed by the German army shortly after arrival.
Eleven of the men are captured and killed. Only Jan Baalsrud escapes. What follows is a staggering journey of survival as Baalsrud—suffering from frostbite, snow blindness, and exposure—must flee across the freezing Arctic wastelands toward the neutral border of Sweden. Hunted by the Nazis and facing impossible odds, his survival depends on the courage of strangers who risk their lives to help him.
A gripping and emotionally exhausting survival thriller. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a lesser-known chapter of WWII history. Highly recommended for fans of survival dramas like The Revenant or Unbroken.
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)
The 12th Man (2017) is a gripping survival thriller that follows the true story of Jan Baalsrud, a Norwegian resistance fighter during WWII. Directed by Harald Zwart, the film is a masterclass in tension, grit, and the sheer power of human endurance.
The film captures a failed sabotage mission in occupied Norway. Baalsrud is the only one of 12 men to escape the Gestapo. He flees into the brutal Arctic wilderness. The story shifts from a war movie to a survival epic. Technical Craft
The production value highlights the isolation of the landscape.
Cinematography: Captures the breathtaking but deadly beauty of the fjords.
Tone: Bleak, cold, and claustrophobic despite the vast setting.
Lead Performance: Thomas Gullestad underwent a physical transformation to play Baalsrud.
National Identity: Explores the quiet bravery of Norwegian civilians. Human Will: Shows how far a person can go to stay alive.
Legacy: It serves as a tribute to the "unsung heroes" of the resistance.
💡 Key Takeaway: While Jonathan Rhys Meyers provides a chilling performance as the Gestapo antagonist, the true "villain" of the film is the unforgiving Arctic environment. If you'd like to dive deeper, let me know:
I can tailor the write-up to your specific area of interest.
The 2017 Norwegian film The 12th Man (originally Den 12. mann) is widely regarded as a high-quality, visceral WWII survival drama. It tells the true story of Jan Baalsrud, the sole survivor of a failed 12-man sabotage mission, who flees Nazi forces across the brutal Arctic wilderness. Critical & Audience Consensus
Performance: Thomas Gullestad's portrayal of Baalsrud is praised as "awe-inspiring" and "captivating," vividly capturing the physical and psychological toll of his journey.
Visuals & Sound: Reviewers highlight the "stunning" and "breathtaking" cinematography of the frozen Norwegian landscape. The production quality, including lighting and sound design, is noted as being on par with high-standard international cinema.
Intensity: The film is described as "unrelentingly grim," featuring some graphic and "torturous" scenes—notably involving a self-amputation of frostbitten toes. Blu-ray & Subtitle Details
Since you mentioned the 1080p Blu-ray with English subtitles, here are specific technical notes for that release:
Language: The film is primarily in Norwegian and German, with very small amounts of English and Sami.
Audio Tracks: The Shout! Factory Blu-ray includes the original Norwegian/German audio and a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track.
Subtitle Concerns: While most viewers find the film "easy to follow" with subtitles, some customer reviews on Amazon UK have noted that certain non-UK imports may not be "English friendly," so ensure your specific version is the Shout! Factory release or explicitly lists English subs. Runtime: Approximately 135 minutes. Pros & Cons Incredible true story of human endurance Some scenes may be too graphic for sensitive viewers Stunning Arctic cinematography Pace can feel slow at 130+ minutes Strong villainous performance by Jonathan Rhys Meyers High-intensity "suffering" might feel repetitive to some
You can check more professional critiques on IMDb or Roger Ebert for deeper analysis of the film's historical accuracy. FILM REVIEW: THE 12TH MAN | Fear Forever
The 2017 film The 12th Man (Norwegian: Den 12. mann ) is a historical war drama directed by Harald Zwart that chronicles the extraordinary survival story of Jan Baalsrud, a Norwegian resistance fighter during World War II. Based on the 2001 book Jan Baalsrud and Those Who Saved Him
, the film serves as both a visceral survival thriller and a tribute to the collective courage of the Norwegian people. Historical Context and Plot The narrative is set in 1943 during Operation Martin Red
, a sabotage mission involving 12 British-trained Norwegian commandos sent to occupied Norway to destroy Nazi military facilities. After their fishing boat is intercepted and destroyed by a German warship, 11 of the men are captured, tortured, and eventually executed. Jan Baalsrud, the eponymous "12th man," is the sole survivor who manages to evade immediate capture by swimming across a sub-zero fjord, despite being wounded by a gunshot to his foot. Major Themes The 12th Man (2017)
The 12th Man: A Gripping Survival Story of Courage and Resilience The.12th.Man.2017.1080p.BluRay.-English with Su...
In the realm of war dramas, few films have managed to capture the essence of survival and resilience as poignantly as "The 12th Man" (2017). This Norwegian film, directed by Mathias Sandorf and based on the true story of Jan Erik Henriksen, tells the harrowing tale of a Norwegian resistance fighter who finds himself in the midst of World War II. With its intense action sequences, gripping storyline, and a cast that brings depth and emotion to their characters, "The 12th Man" stands out as a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.
Plot Summary
The film is set in Norway during World War II, where Erlend (played by Mads Mikkelsen), a former Norwegian army officer, joins the resistance to fight against the Nazi occupation. After a mission goes wrong, Erlend finds himself isolated and on the run, with the Nazis hot on his heels. With his comrades either captured or killed, Erlend must rely on his wits, courage, and determination to survive.
The movie meticulously recreates the harsh realities of war and the difficult choices individuals had to make during that tumultuous period. As Erlend navigates through the rugged Norwegian landscape, he faces numerous challenges, from evading enemy patrols to securing food and shelter. His journey is marked by moments of intense fear, profound loneliness, and an unyielding resolve to resist the oppressors.
Cinematography and Visuals
One of the standout aspects of "The 12th Man" is its breathtaking cinematography. The film captures the beauty and brutality of war-torn Norway, with sweeping landscapes that contrast sharply with the close quarters combat and narrow escapes. The Norwegian wilderness, captured in stunning 1080p BluRay quality, serves as both a backdrop and a character in its own right, influencing the mood and the actions of the protagonist.
Performance and Character Development
Mads Mikkelsen, known for his versatile roles in various films, brings a depth and nuance to Erlend that makes his character's journey deeply relatable and emotionally resonant. The supporting cast also delivers compelling performances, bringing to life the complex web of relationships and alliances that define resistance movements.
Themes and Impact
At its core, "The 12th Man" explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the human spirit's capacity for resilience. The film sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of World War II history, offering viewers a chance to engage with a story that is both educational and deeply moving. The title, referring to the twelfth man in a firing squad, symbolizes the perilous situation Erlend and his comrades find themselves in, highlighting the constant threat of death and the importance of solidarity and sacrifice.
Technical Details and Accessibility
For those interested in watching "The 12th Man," the 2017 BluRay release offers an exceptional viewing experience, with crisp visuals and a soundtrack that immerses viewers in the action. The film is available in English with subtitles, catering to a wide audience. The technical details of the BluRay release include:
Conclusion
"The 12th Man" (2017) is a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to persevere in the face of overwhelming adversity. With its gripping narrative, stunning visuals, and memorable performances, it stands as a significant contribution to the genre of war dramas. For anyone interested in historical dramas that tell untold stories of courage and resilience, "The 12th Man" is an essential watch. Its portrayal of one man's fight against impossible odds serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II and the enduring power of the human spirit.
“The.12th.Man.2017.1080p.BluRay.-English with Su...”
Given the truncation, this likely refers to the 2017 Norwegian historical thriller The 12th Man (original title: Den 12. mann), and the remainder probably indicates an English audio track with subtitles (e.g., “English with subs”).
Below is a detailed article optimized around that keyword, covering the film’s plot, historical accuracy, technical specs of the 1080p BluRay release, and subtitle considerations.
Movie: The 12th Man (2017)
Format: 1080p BluRay
Language: English (subtitle file)
Filename: The.12th.Man.2017.1080p.BluRay.-English.srt
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The 12th Man: A Gripping Tale of War and Survival
Introduction
"The 12th Man" is a 2017 Norwegian film directed by Mathias Ståhl, based on the true story of Jan Erik Henriksen, a Norwegian resistance fighter during World War II. The movie, available in 1080p BluRay quality with English subtitles, is a gripping and intense portrayal of war, survival, and the human spirit.
The Story
The film is set in Norway during World War II, where a young resistance fighter, Jan Erik Henriksen (played by David W. Wang), finds himself in the midst of a desperate battle against the Nazi occupation. As the war intensifies, Jan Erik is forced to flee and goes into hiding, assuming a new identity as "The 12th Man." With the help of a few trusted allies, he manages to evade capture and continue fighting against the enemy. Title: The 12th Man (Den 12
The Cast and Crew
The film features a talented cast, including David W. Wang, Vegar Hoel, and Truls Fjord, who deliver impressive performances that bring depth and emotion to the story. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the rugged beauty of Norway's landscapes and the harsh realities of war.
Themes and Messages
"The 12th Man" explores several themes, including courage, sacrifice, and the importance of standing up against oppression. The film shows how one person can make a difference, even in the face of overwhelming odds. It also highlights the importance of loyalty, friendship, and the bonds that form between people in times of crisis.
Historical Significance
The film is based on a true story, making it a significant contribution to the historical record of World War II. The movie sheds light on the bravery and resilience of Norwegian resistance fighters, who played a crucial role in the war effort. By telling this story, the film provides a unique perspective on a lesser-known aspect of history.
Technical Details
Conclusion
"The 12th Man" is a gripping and intense film that tells a remarkable true story of war and survival. With its talented cast, stunning cinematography, and powerful themes, it is a must-watch for anyone interested in historical dramas. If you're looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than "The 12th Man."
Movie Review: The 12th Man (2017) - A Gripping WWII Drama
Rating: 4.5/5
"The 12th Man" is a 2017 Norwegian historical drama film directed by Mathias Ståle Kvensen, based on the true story of Johan Svendsen, a Norwegian resistance fighter during World War II. The film stars Håkon Fjellbåge, Gideon Adlon, and Mads Syrstad.
Plot Summary:
The movie follows the story of Jan, a young Norwegian man who joins the resistance movement to fight against the Nazi occupation of Norway. As Jan becomes more involved in the resistance, he finds himself in a cat-and-mouse game with the Nazis, who are determined to crush the rebellion. The film takes the audience on a thrilling ride, as Jan and his fellow resistance fighters risk their lives to protect their country and their people.
Review:
"The 12th Man" is a gripping and intense WWII drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The film's strong narrative and well-developed characters make it easy to become invested in the story. Håkon Fjellbåge delivers a standout performance as Jan, bringing depth and nuance to the character.
The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the harsh beauty of the Norwegian landscape and the intensity of the resistance fighters' struggles. The action scenes are well-choreographed and suspenseful, making you feel like you're right there with Jan and his fellow fighters.
One of the most impressive aspects of "The 12th Man" is its historical accuracy. The film is based on a true story, and the attention to detail is evident throughout. The movie sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of WWII history, making it a valuable addition to the genre.
Pros:
Cons:
Conclusion:
"The 12th Man" is a gripping and intense WWII drama that is well worth watching. With its strong narrative, impressive cinematography, and standout performances, it's a must-see for fans of historical dramas and action films. If you're looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you feeling inspired, then "The 12th Man" is an excellent choice.
Technical Details:
Overall, I highly recommend "The 12th Man" to anyone looking for a compelling and intense historical drama.
Title: Defying the Odds: A Review of The 12th Man (2017)
Harald Zwart’s 2017 war drama, The 12th Man (Norwegian: Den 12. mann), is a harrowing and visually stunning testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Based on the true story of Jan Baalsrud, a Norwegian resistance fighter who survived against impossible odds during World War II, the film transcends the typical action-heavy war genre. Instead, it focuses on a gripping tale of survival, isolation, and the collective courage of a civilian population. For viewers watching the high-definition 1080p BluRay release, the stark beauty of the Norwegian landscape serves as a powerful backdrop to a story of sheer willpower.
The film’s narrative is set in 1943 and follows a team of Norwegian resistance fighters on a mission to sabotage German operations. However, their mission goes catastrophically wrong, and their fishing vessel is attacked by a German minesweeper. Eleven of the twelve men are captured and executed, leaving Jan Baalsrud (played with intense physical commitment by Thomas Gullestad) as the sole survivor. What follows is not a typical escape thriller, but a desperate odyssey across the frozen wilderness of northern Norway, pursued by Nazi forces led by the determined Kurt Stage (Jonathan Rhys Meyers). Conclusion "The 12th Man" (2017) is a powerful
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its visual storytelling. The decision to film on location in the brutal cold of Norway pays dividends, particularly in the 1080p BluRay presentation. The clarity of the image brings out the terrifying beauty of the landscape—the blinding white snow, the jagged mountains, and the freezing waters. This high-definition quality enhances the immersive experience; the audience can almost feel the biting wind and the numbness that creeps into Baalsrud’s limbs. The landscape is not just a setting but an antagonist in itself, constantly testing the protagonist’s will to live.
Thomas Gullestad delivers a riveting performance that anchors the film. Much of the movie is devoid of dialogue, relying instead on Gullestad’s physical transformation and his expressive eyes to convey the agony and determination of a man pushed to his limits. As Baalsrud battles frostbite, snow blindness, and exhaustion, the film emphasizes the mental toll of survival. It is a portrayal of a man who refuses to die not because of a lust for vengeance, but out of a refusal to let his comrades’ sacrifice be in vain.
Furthermore, The 12th Man distinguishes itself by highlighting the role of ordinary Norwegians. Baalsrud’s survival is not a solo act; it is made possible by the bravery of local villagers who risk their lives—and often lose them—to hide, feed, and transport him. This aspect elevates the film from a simple survival story to a tribute to collective resistance. It reminds the viewer that war is fought not only by soldiers on battlefields but also by civilians who choose humanity over fear.
While the pacing is deliberate and the tone somber, the film maintains a high level of tension throughout. Jonathan Rhys Meyers is compelling as the relentless pursuer, providing a palpable threat that keeps the stakes high. However, the true conflict remains between Baalsrud and nature, making his ultimate fate all the more inspiring.
In conclusion, The 12th Man is a powerful and emotionally resonant film that honors a national hero with dignity and grit. It is a story stripped of Hollywood gloss, presenting survival in its rawest form. Watching the BluRay release allows for an appreciation of the film’s cinematic quality, capturing the nuances of the frozen environment and the performances. It stands as a compelling reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can endure the unendurable.
The 12th Man (2017) is a gripping Norwegian historical drama that recounts the miraculous survival story of Jan Baalsrud, a resistance fighter during World War II. Plot Overview
Set in 1943, the film follows twelve Norwegian saboteurs who sail from England to Nazi-occupied Norway to destroy a German air control tower. The mission goes sideways when they are betrayed; eleven are captured and executed, leaving only Jan Baalsrud to escape. Wounded and pursued by the Gestapo—led by the relentless Kurt Stage—Baalsrud must survive the brutal Arctic wilderness to reach neutral Sweden. Production Highlights Director: Harald Zwart
Starring: Thomas Gullestad (as Jan Baalsrud) and Jonathan Rhys Meyers (as Kurt Stage)
Visuals: The film is renowned for its stunning cinematography, capturing the harsh beauty and lethal cold of the Norwegian fjords and mountains.
Authenticity: Lead actor Thomas Gullestad underwent a significant physical transformation, losing weight to realistically portray Baalsrud’s deteriorating health and frostbite. Critical Reception
Critics often highlight the film's intense pacing and its focus on the collective effort of the Norwegian civilians who risked their lives to hide and transport Baalsrud. On platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, the film maintains a strong audience score for its high-stakes survival sequences and emotional weight. Why Watch It?
Incredible True Story: It honors a legendary figure in Norwegian history whose survival defied all medical logic.
Stunning Scenery: The 1080p BluRay quality showcases the immense scale of the Arctic environment.
Performances: Jonathan Rhys Meyers provides a chilling performance as a methodical villain, creating a tense "cat-and-mouse" dynamic.
The 12th Man (2017) is a gripping Norwegian World War II survival drama directed by Harald Zwart. It tells the extraordinary true story of Jan Baalsrud, the sole survivor of a failed 12-man sabotage mission against Nazi occupiers in 1943. Quick Verdict
Critics and audiences generally praise the film for its stunning cinematography, intense performances, and incredible portrayal of human endurance. While some find the 130-minute runtime a bit slow in the middle, most agree it is a "must-watch" for war and survival film buffs. Detailed Review Highlights The 12th Man (2017)
The 12th Man (2017) is a gripping historical thriller that tells the incredible true story of Jan Baalsrud, a Norwegian resistance fighter who became the sole survivor of a failed sabotage mission during World War II [1, 2].
The film, directed by Harald Zwart, is a visceral depiction of survival against impossible odds, set against the brutal beauty of the Arctic landscape. Synopsis
In 1943, twelve Norwegian saboteurs set sail from England to destroy a German air control tower in occupied Norway [2]. However, their mission is betrayed, and their boat is sunk by a German minesweeper. While eleven of his comrades are captured, tortured, and executed, Jan Baalsrud manage to escape into the freezing wilderness [1, 3].
Wounded and pursued by the Gestapo—led by the relentless Sturmbannführer Kurt Stage—Baalsrud must survive sub-zero temperatures, snow blindness, and gangrene. His journey becomes a symbol of national defiance as local civilians risk their lives to help him reach neutral Sweden [2, 4]. Key Highlights
A Tale of Human Endurance: The film does not shy away from the physical toll of Baalsrud’s journey, including a famous, harrowing scene involving self-surgery to prevent the spread of gangrene [3].
Stunning Cinematography: Shot in the actual locations where the events took place, the 1080p BluRay quality highlights the stark, terrifying beauty of the Norwegian fjords and mountains [1, 5].
Stellar Performances: Thomas Gullestad (Jan Baalsrud) underwent a significant physical transformation for the role, while Jonathan Rhys Meyers delivers a chilling performance as the obsessive Nazi pursuer [2, 4]. Technical Specs (BluRay) Resolution: 1080p High Definition Audio: Norwegian (Original), English Subtitles included Run Time: Approx. 135 minutes Genre: War, Drama, History
The 12th Man stands out in the war movie genre not for its battle scenes, but for its intense focus on human endurance. It is a visceral, often painful film to watch, effectively capturing the brutal nature of the Norwegian winter. The cinematography is breathtaking, juxtaposing the stark, lethal beauty of the snowy landscapes with the physical agony of the protagonist.
Thomas Gullestad delivers a phenomenal performance as Jan Baalsrud. Much of the film is a one-man show, focusing on his physical deterioration and mental will to survive. It avoids the jingoistic tropes often found in American war films, instead focusing on the quiet heroism of the local Norwegian civilians who risk everything to shelter a fugitive. The pacing is deliberate, immersing the viewer in the slow, agonizing crawl toward safety.
The 1080p BluRay release offers the highest consumer-grade quality for home viewing. Key benefits include:
When the keyword includes “English with Su…”, it naturally points to English audio (dubbed) or English subtitles. The original language is Norwegian and German. Most purists prefer the original audio with English subtitles – and the BluRay supports both.
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