Vikings: Valhalla, Netflix's companion and sequel series to the History Channel's Vikings, which captivated audiences for six seasons, set sail as a sturdy and thrilling follow-up. Though it occasionally navigates through tonal disparities, it remains an exciting adventure that pays homage to its predecessor.
Valhalla delves into the twilight of the Viking Era, spotlighting legendary figures like Leif Eriksson, Canute the Great, and Harold of Norway. The world depicted in Valhalla is markedly different from that of the original series; the old Norse ways are fading, allowing the new series to present its narrative in a refreshed light. The result is a well-crafted saga brimming with gritty performances, large-scale battle sequences, and dramatic historical twists.
At the heart of Valhalla is Sam Corlett's portrayal of the famed Leif Eriksson. As a Greenlander Viking, Leif, along with his sister Freydis (Frida Gustavsson) and their close comrades, remain largely untouched by the rise of Christianity that has engulfed the Viking people in the century between the two series. When Leif navigates a treacherous storm to reach Kattegat in response to King Canute of Denmark's call for revenge against England's King Aethelred, he finds his devotion to the old gods makes him an outcast.
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Leif often broods in silent intensity, driven by a singular, honorable purpose. Corlett's captivating performance as Leif showcases his struggle against both internal and external foes, while Gustavsson's Freydis embarks on her own mystical and religious journey. Gustavsson infuses Freydis with a noble heart and unwavering determination, especially in the latter half of the season, following the major assault on England and the scattering of characters across the realm.
Beneath the city sieges and blood feuds, Valhalla explores the internal implosion of the Viking people and the aggressive Christian faction seeking to purge paganism from their ranks. This Christian fervor also explains the Anglicized feel of many characters.
The third central figure is Leo Suter's Harald Sigurdsson. Harald, a Christian, isn't as self-righteous as his half-brother King Olaf (Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson). He becomes a berserker broker of sorts, a peacekeeper who forms a bond with Leif and an even stronger connection with Freydis. Harald, caught between religious rivalries and his own quest for vengeance, is skillfully balanced by Suter, who brings a charismatic wild card element to the series. Harald's impartiality allows him to recognize the intelligence and skill beneath Leif's stoic façade.
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Vikings: Valhalla never skimps on action. Season 1 features two marvelous war moments, each showcasing distinct strategies, twists, and turns. The Battle of Stamford Bridge is particularly gripping, delivering intense bloodshed and suspense. The season finale's violent chaos marks the end of a significant era, bringing the brutality back to its roots. Asbjørn Krogh's portrayal of the pious and psychotic Jarl Kåre adds to the season's formidable tension.
Vikings: Valhalla is a crafty continuation of the original series. It unravels events in a more conventional manner, yet remains compelling and complete. As it presents a different era for Vikings, it naturally shifts its tonal course, reflecting the changing times.
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