Lords of Chaos

Lords of Chaos is a 2018 biographical drama film directed by Jonas Åkerlund, based on the 1998 book of the same name by Michael Moynihan and Didrik Søderlind. The film tells the story of Mayhem, a Norwegian black metal band that rose to fame in the 1990s and became infamous for its extreme and violent behavior. The film centers around Øystein "Euronymous" Aarseth (played by Rory Culkin), the lead guitarist and founding member of Mayhem, as well as Varg Vikernes (played by Emilie de Ravin initially then later played by Sky Ferreira) the bassist of the band Darkthrone and later the drummer for Burzum. Euronymous, who was obsessed with the occult and the works of H.P. Lovecraft, is determined to create a new sound of Norwegian black metal that is darker and more aggressive than anything that has come before. As Euronymous and Mayhem gain notoriety, they attract a following of young musicians who are drawn to their music and their anti-Christian ideology. Among these musicians is Varg, who becomes a central figure in the Norwegian black metal scene. Despite his talent as a musician, Varg is a complex and volatile individual who is prone to outbursts of violence and aggression. Meanwhile, a new member joins Mayhem - Per Ohlin, also known as Dead (played by Johan Hegg and later played by Jack Kilmer). The arrival of Dead brings a new level of intensity to the band's music and performances, but it also creates tension within the group. Euronymous, who sees Dead as a threat to his leadership, becomes increasingly ruthless and manipulative, using Dead's mental health issues to further his own interests. As the violence and aggression of the band members escalate, the film descends into a world of chaos and destruction. Euronymous and his followers engage in acts of vandalism and arson, attacking churches and other symbols of Christianity. They also engage in a series of violent feuds with other musicians and fans, which ultimately lead to a series of tragic events. One of the most pivotal moments in the film comes when Euronymous and Mayhem are involved in a brutal fight with a rival musician, Jon "Vargulf" Kristiansen. The violence of the fight is intense and unrelenting, and it ultimately leads to the death of Kristiansen. But the most shocking moment in the film comes when Øystein Aarseth is found dead in his apartment, having been brutally stabbed to death by Varg. The incident sends shockwaves throughout the music scene, and it ultimately leads to Varg's arrest and imprisonment. As the film comes to a close, it becomes clear that the violence and aggression of the Norwegian black metal scene have had a profound impact on the lives of the musicians and fans involved. The film ends with a sense of tragedy and loss, as the audience is left to ponder the devastating consequences of the events that have unfolded. Throughout the film, Åkerlund captures the raw energy and aggression of the Norwegian black metal scene, using a combination of gritty realism and stylized imagery to bring the music and the musicians to life. The performances of the cast are also noteworthy, particularly Rory Culkin, who brings a sense of intensity and vulnerability to the role of Euronymous. Overall, Lords of Chaos is a thought-provoking and deeply unsettling film that provides a unique glimpse into the world of Norwegian black metal. It is a film that is not for the faint of heart, but it is also a film that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who sees it.