"Arctic"

2018 * PG-13 * 1h 38m  I'd have to say, this is one of the finest survival movies I've ever seen. I think it surpasses films like All is Lost, Adrift, The Grey, and the more sci-fi types like The Martian, Interstellar, and The Road. And that some pretty heady competition. 

The film centers around the pilot of a small airplane who crashes into the nether regions of Iceland in the heart of winter. He survives by fishing, and sheer determination. When he spots a helicopter flying overhead, he's overcome with emotion and signals for help. When the chopper crashes, his hope is dashed. He discovers a female surviver, although she's unconscious and barely alive. After a few days, he comes to the conclusion that they have to make a break for it and attempt trekking back to civilization. And what an arduous task that is! 

There are several things I really enjoyed (if I can use that word) about this film. For starters, the acting by Mads Mikkelsen was superb. He had almost no dialogue in the movie. He conveyed his various thoughts and feelings through his facial expressions and the occasional grunt or groan. What an amazing performance. The scenery is also phenomenal. The landscape is so remarkable, it really makes me want to visit Iceland. I think I'd opt for summertime, however. And the cinematography was outstanding as well. You feel like you're right there with Mikkelsen, suffering the cold and wind along with him. Just a great film from beginning to end. Don't miss this film!

4 out of 5 stars

Streaming on Hoopla for free with your library card. Also on Hulu and Prime Video.