Whether you find it infuriating or sublime, there's no denying Nicolas Winding Refn's viking epic is one of the most distinctive films of the past year. With an elusive sense of narrative and frankly puzzling continuity,
Valhalla Rising still manages to stoke up some striking visuals, an awesomely foreboding soundtrack and a thoroughly compelling 'hero' in Mads Mikkelson's One Eye. Pretentious, fascinating and brutal, it recalls everything from
Antichrist to Godard, yet is totally unique.
Valhalla Rising is out on UK DVD and Blu-ray from 17th May 2010 through Momentum Pictures.