The 12th Man (2017) is a Norwegian historical war drama directed by Harald Zwart. The film is based on the true story of Jan Baalsrud, a Norwegian resistance fighter during World War II, who was part of a failed sabotage mission against Nazi forces in Norway.
The plot follows Baalsrud (played by Thomas Gullestad) and his eleven comrades who attempt to infiltrate Nazi-occupied Norway by boat, only for their mission to be betrayed. The group is ambushed, and while most of his fellow resistance members are captured or killed, Baalsrud manages to escape. What follows is an extraordinary tale of survival, as Baalsrud embarks on a harrowing journey across the frozen, hostile landscape of Northern Norway, evading the Nazis led by SS officer Kurt Stage (Jonathan Rhys Meyers), who relentlessly hunts him down.
Baalsrud endures extreme physical challenges, including frostbite, starvation, and severe injuries, all while relying on the help of brave local villagers who risk their lives to protect him. His journey lasts for weeks as he makes his way toward Sweden, which was neutral during the war. The film is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the bravery of those who resisted Nazi occupation.
The 12th Man received praise for its intense and realistic depiction of Baalsrud’s ordeal, as well as for its beautiful yet harsh portrayal of the Norwegian landscape. Thomas Gullestad’s performance as Baalsrud was lauded for its emotional depth and physical intensity, capturing the struggle of a man fighting against overwhelming odds. Jonathan Rhys Meyers also delivers a chilling performance as the Nazi officer obsessed with capturing him.
The film is both a gripping survival story and a tribute to the courage of the Norwegian resistance during World War II. It highlights the themes of perseverance, sacrifice, and the importance of solidarity in the face of oppression.