When it comes to historical-war series, many people might picture warriors with messy hair drinking mead in wooden huts before charging into battle with two-handed axes. The series Vikings, which first aired in 2013, completely shattered that image. It's not just about the thrill of combat; it's a brutal and beautiful poem about ambition, family, and faith, told through the eyes of the ancient Norse people.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers for the Ending)
The series begins with Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel), a farmer with grand dreams. He believes sailing west will lead to fertile lands, but the local Earl Haraldson dismisses the idea as foolish and dangerous. Ragnar must defy orders and build a new type of sailboat with his eccentric carpenter friend Floki (Gustaf Skarsgård). His adventures lead to the discovery of England and the beginning of a massive transformation in the Viking world.
The story covers battles, tribal politics, Ragnar's family life with his first wife Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick), a formidable shieldmaiden, and his second wife Aslaug (Alyssa Sutherland), as well as the growth of his four sons: Ubbe, Hvitserk, Sigurd, and Ivar the Boneless. Each plays a crucial role in the later seasons, which explore Ragnar's legacy after his departure.
Acting and Characters
The heart of the series lies in Travis Fimmel's performance as Ragnar. He masterfully conveys cunning, tenderness, and madness, especially through his pale blue eyes that seem empty yet deeply meaningful. Ragnar is both hero and villain, making us pity and hate him in the same moment.
The other actors are equally outstanding. Gustaf Skarsgård plays Floki, the shipbuilder obsessed with the gods. His inhuman facial expressions make Floki one of the most memorable characters. Alex Høgh Andersen as Ivar the Boneless is both terrifying and pitiable, making us forget his disability. Ivar is one of the most complex villains on television.
Additionally, Clive Standen as Rollo, Ragnar's brother, has a storyline full of intriguing twists, making it impossible to easily judge any character. Everyone has their own reasons.
Direction, Cinematography, and Music
Vikings stands out with its beautiful and realistic cinematography. The vast oceans, rugged forests, and Viking way of life are depicted in detail. The battle scenes, while not as large-scale as Game of Thrones, are raw and bloody, making you fully feel the brutality of war.
The score by Trevor Morris (from The Tudors) and Einar Selvik (a Norwegian musician) blends ancient instruments with traditional chants, creating an atmosphere that is both somber and grand. The opening theme 'If I Had a Heart' by Fever Ray is also catchy and perfectly matches the series' theme.
In terms of direction, Michael Hirst (creator of The Tudors) chooses a slow-paced narrative that emphasizes character and cultural details. Some episodes may feel drawn out, but every scene is important for the story's development.
Editorial Analysis
Our editorial team sees Vikings as a series that is 'more' than just a 'war series.' It delves deep into the inner conflicts of humanity, whether it's ambition eroding family bonds, faith turning into fanaticism, or the struggle for survival in a cruel world.
What sets Vikings
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Top-tier performances, especially from Travis Fimmel and Alex Høgh Andersen.
- +The visuals and music create an immersive atmosphere.
- +The storyline is complex, with dimensions spanning politics, family, and spirituality.
- +Strong female characters like Lagertha
- +Not afraid to kill off the main character, creating tension.
👎 Cons
- −The content in the later part of the mid-season starts to drag.
- −The pacing in some parts is too slow for those who prefer a fast-paced style.
Top Cast
FAQ
Vikings has a total of 6 seasons, with 89 episodes.
The series is inspired by Norse mythology and historical records, but with creative embellishments for entertainment purposes.
Recommend Vikings: Valhalla, a sequel set 100 years later.
Not suitable for children under 18 due to violent scenes and adult content.
No spoilers, but you can find it from general sources.
