Against the Ice (2022) is a harrowing survival drama based on the true story of two explorers stranded in the unforgiving icy expanse of Greenland in 1909. Directed by Peter Flinth, the film follows the remarkable journey of Captain Ejnar Mikkelsen (played by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) and his companion, Iver Iversen (Joe Cole), as they face extreme conditions in a desperate attempt to retrieve critical maps that could prove Denmark’s territorial claim over Greenland. With nothing but their courage and resourcefulness, the two men must rely on each other to endure the elements, the isolation, and the psychological toll of their dire situation.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to build a deeply immersive atmosphere of dread and determination, capturing the sheer brutality of nature and the struggle for survival. The icy wilderness is not just a backdrop but a character in itself, dominating every moment of the story. The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking shots of the vast, snow-covered landscapes that convey both the beauty and the menace of the Arctic environment. Every scene is drenched in cold, making the viewers feel the same bone-chilling isolation and hopelessness the characters experience.

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau delivers a commanding performance as Ejnar Mikkelsen, portraying the resilience and leadership required in such extreme circumstances. His bond with Iversen, played by Joe Cole, is at the heart of the film, and the emotional weight of their friendship provides a grounding counterpoint to the physical and mental trials they endure. Their interactions, full of tension and solidarity, highlight the human spirit’s capacity to withstand overwhelming odds.

The film’s pacing is deliberately slow, allowing the tension to build gradually as the men face increasingly insurmountable challenges. While there are moments of quiet introspection, the dire reality of their predicament keeps the narrative moving forward, with each decision, no matter how small, carrying heavy consequences. As the characters battle hunger, exhaustion, and the psychological effects of being trapped in such a remote and hostile environment, Against the Ice delves into the inner strength and resilience required to survive.

The score and sound design further enhance the mood of the film, with sparse, atmospheric music that echoes the vast emptiness of the Arctic and amplifies the tension during the more intense survival scenes. The quiet moments are just as effective as the action sequences, allowing the characters’ emotions and the oppressive silence of the wilderness to take center stage.

Against the Ice is a powerful survival drama that tells a compelling story of human perseverance, friendship, and the fight against nature’s merciless forces. It’s a captivating and emotionally charged experience that will resonate with viewers who appreciate intimate stories of survival and the triumph of the human spirit.