Film Movement | Release Date:November 18, 2011 | Not Rated
Summary:This true story of the infamous Bastoy Boys Home correctional facility in Norway, begins with the arrival of seventeen-year-old Erling, a rumored murderer. He immediately clashes with the island facility's governor, who believes manual labor, rigid discipline, and harsh punishment are the only methods that can turn the boys into honorableThis true story of the infamous Bastoy Boys Home correctional facility in Norway, begins with the arrival of seventeen-year-old Erling, a rumored murderer. He immediately clashes with the island facility's governor, who believes manual labor, rigid discipline, and harsh punishment are the only methods that can turn the boys into honorable members of society. Refusing to accept the constant abuse, Erling slowly rouses the rest of the boys out of their resigned existence, and encourages them to fight to lift up their spirits. When tragedy finally falls at the hand of the sadistic dorm master, Erling leads his comrades in a courageous and vicious rebellion that will bring them head to head with no less than the Norwegian Army. (Film Movement)…Expand
Heart rendering true story about an uprising at a notorious correctional facility for juveniles on a Norwegian island. When a new prisoner arrives Erling (Ben Helstand), his unrelenting passion to escape, prevail, and rebel against authority immediately puts him in hot water. The young menHeart rendering true story about an uprising at a notorious correctional facility for juveniles on a Norwegian island. When a new prisoner arrives Erling (Ben Helstand), his unrelenting passion to escape, prevail, and rebel against authority immediately puts him in hot water. The young men in this facility endure horrendous conditions and brutal abuse daily. Eriling's unflinching bravery eventually inspires and galvanizes the young men collectively leading to a dramatic conclusion. The heart of the movie is the journey of these young men together. At first unnamed (assigned numbers), alone, and without hope. But Eriling's tenacious spirit leads to bonding, establishing relationships, and aspirations. Cinematography and landscape capture and enhance the cold, brutal origin of the story. The metaphor that is used throughout the film, and the evolving story of the "harpooner" is just perfect. Never falls victim to cheap melodrama; inspirational and touching. Impressive achievement by director Marius Hoist. Both performances by Stellan Skarsgard and Benjamin Heistad are simply marvelous.…Expand
Certainly a must-see, not only for fans of Scandinavian movies. Grim and touching, with great acting (where did they found those children?). The story draws strongly and you will be most probably very satisfied with the ending. I recommend it for a serene night with your beloved one. InsteadCertainly a must-see, not only for fans of Scandinavian movies. Grim and touching, with great acting (where did they found those children?). The story draws strongly and you will be most probably very satisfied with the ending. I recommend it for a serene night with your beloved one. Instead of watching dull romantic comedies, see the "King of Devil's Island" and let your hearts get moved.…Expand