Netflix adds 'brutally marvellous' horror movie with 90% Rotten Tomatoes score

The horror genre covers a wide range of chilling themes, from spooky ghost stories to gory franchises. But one film with an impressive score of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes has been quietly added to Netflix, and it's not a typical horror. The Northman, which was released in 2022, is based on the Norse legend of the Viking prince, Amleth, and the plot follows a young nobleman on his quest for bloody revenge. Sounds familiar? It is actually based on Shakespeare, believe it or not. Swedish actor Alexander Skarsgard plays Amleth, who, as a child, witnessed the murder of his father, King Aurvandil (Ethan Hawke).

Unable to handle the marriage of his uncle and his mother (Nicole Kidman), the prince escapes and grows up in exile. It is basically Hamlet, but inevitably more violent. Obsessed with the thought of his father's death, he returns with vengeance.

So what do viewers think at home? When the film was released, it received critical acclaim. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes gave it a massive 90% score.

One fan on IMDb said: "The Northman's combination of a large budget and epic scale with a slow burn character drama make it an incredibly unique and rare film. A disturbingly violent yet breathtakingly beautiful exploration of the cycle of violence and it's burden on those it consumes."

A second also commented: "Brutally breathtaking. Go see it, it's an experience. The photography is overwhelming, the music will blow you away, the storyline is captivating and the acting suberb."

A third also chimed in: "Robert Eggers does it again! This isn't just another viking movie, it is one of the BEST dramas ever! GREAT action & emotional too. A fitting end, while also setting up what's next. It is a stunning tale of betrayal and obsessive revenge. With excellent world building saturating every frame, it's one of the most transporting, magical, action-soaked films in some time. Must watch."

A fourth also said: ""The Northman" is an ambitious and visually breathtaking Viking saga that delivers brutal action, mythological depth, and a haunting atmosphere. Robert Eggers crafts an immersive world filled with striking imagery, historical detail, and intense performances, making the film feel both raw and grand in scale."

The Northman can be streamed on Netflix.