Film No. 49. THE ARCTIC CONVOY (KONVOI). Palace, Aust Scandinavian Film Fest (2024). 29th July.

 

Film No. 49 (2024) July 29th.  3:50 PM  LUNA CINEMA, Cinema 5,  Leederville.

"If the allies get these reinforcements, they will push the Germans back." (The Commander expresses his reasons to push on, despite the withdrawal of reinforcements).

 OFFICIAL SELECTION: Best Film (Henrik M. Dahlsbakken) Rotterdam IFF.

How well does KONVOI pay tribute to Norway's war effort (WWII)? As a document of fact it is loose, but as a melodramatic piece of entertainment, inspired by real events, it is a rollicking good yarn.

The true value of KONVOI is the pricking of international consciences' about Norway's contribution to WWII. Director Henrik Martin Dahlsbakken (TUKK FOR TUREN) focuses on the considerably dangerous efforts these convoys took in transporting arms and supplies, via the freezing Arctic waters, to Russian shores thus arming them for their push south, to end the war. This story focuses on Capt. Skar and his cargo ship, Hestmanden, with themes of bravery, the threat of mutiny and finally, intuitive decisions and trust. 

A story inspired by real events can often be taken with a grain of salt but to salute a nation's (Norway) commitment via a contrived story is totally worthwhile here. Enjoy the tense adventure, then research the history of Arctic convoys - remembering, these ships were crewed by civilians.  9GUMS.