Watch Hellfjord

Hellfjord is a Norwegian dark comedy-crime drama television show produced by Tommy Wirkola and Stig Frode Henriksen. The series, which consists of seven episodes, first aired on Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) in 2012 and later on FilmRise in 2015. The show is set in the remote village of Hellfjord, a small community in northern Norway that is plagued by a spate of gruesome murders. The lead character, Salmander, is a police officer who finds himself in Hellfjord after an unfortunate incident in Oslo. Salmander is sent to the arctic to work as a police officer in the remote town of Hellfjord, where he encounters eccentric villagers, deadly secrets, and supernatural phenomena.

The show's premise is a classic fish-out-of-water story. The crude, street-smart detective Salmander is from the big city, and the small-town culture shock that he experiences upon arriving in Hellfjord is palpable. The village is isolated, the locals are skeptical, and the landscape is harsh and unforgiving. The contrast between Salamander's no-nonsense approach and the oddness of the characters he meets creates tension and humor.

The lush visuals of the show are impressive, with the starkly beautiful setting of Hellfjord making an impact. From the snow-covered hills to the eerie, grey fishing docks, the arctic landscape is as much a character in the show as the people in it. The soundtrack is also notable, with a mix of classical music pieces used to create an ironic contrast with the macabre themes of the show.

One of the interesting things about Hellfjord is the way it mixes genres. Although it is mostly classified as a dark comedy-crime drama, the show has a healthy dose of horror elements that give it a unique atmosphere. Some of the murders are gruesome, and Salmander's investigations lead him to encounter supernatural occurrences that defy explanation. This mix of genres creates a sense of unpredictability, and the viewer is never quite sure what to expect next.

The performances in Hellfjord are top-notch, with the cast truly embracing the offbeat nature of the show. The main character, Salmander, is played by Zahid Ali, who exudes a rough-edged charm that makes him compelling to watch. Alongside him is the rest of the ensemble cast, which includes characters like the local mayor, a heavily pregnant police officer, and a mysterious, charismatic preacher. These characters are well-drawn, and the actors give them a depth that makes them more than just caricatures.

One of the show's strengths is its ability to tackle serious themes with a light touch. The murders that occur in the village are grisly, and there are moments where the show gets into darker territory. However, the humor remains a constant, with the more absurd moments of the show punctuating the tension. The result is a show that is entertaining and engaging, even as it explores themes like corruption, isolation, and the darker side of human nature.

Overall, Hellfjord is a unique television experience that blends humor, horror, and mystery into a captivating package. It is a show that rewards the viewer who is willing to embrace its quirks and go along for the ride. The performances are excellent, the visuals are impressive, and the story is both straightforward and delightfully bizarre. Fans of dark comedies and crime dramas will find plenty to enjoy in this Norwegian gem.