22 July

22 July, directed by Paul Greengrass, is a gripping drama that delves into the tragic events of July 22, 2011, when Norwegian neo-Nazi Anders Behring Breivik carried out a heinous terrorist attack that left 77 innocent lives lost. The film's narrative weaves together the stories of the survivors, the Norwegian government's response, and the lawyers who played a crucial role in bringing the perpetrator to justice. The story begins on the idyllic Utøya Island, where the Labour Party Youth Camp (AUF) is underway. The atmosphere is lively and carefree, with young people from all over Norway coming together to socialize, debate, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Amidst the excitement, a sense of unease settles over the group when a series of ominous messages warning of a potential attack are shared among participants. The first part of the film takes us through the events of July 22, 2011. On that fateful day, at 15:37, a bomb explodes in the center of Oslo, killing eight people and injuring dozens more. The blast rocks the city, and amidst the chaos, a group of AUF members, led by Viljar Hanssen (Anders Danielsen Lie) and Thomas Svendsen (Jon Øigarden), sets out to investigate the cause of the explosion. Unbeknownst to the group, they are about to face an even greater horror. As they arrive on Utøya Island, they discover that Anders Behring Breivik, a self-proclaimed neo-Nazi, has taken hundreds of young people hostage. Breivik, dressed in a police uniform, begins to systematically slaughter the AUF members, shooting and killing without mercy. As panic sets in, the survivors, including Viljar and Thomas, try to comprehend the scale of the tragedy unfolding before their eyes. In a desperate attempt to escape, a few of them make a break for the water, hoping to swim to safety. This harrowing sequence is one of the most intense and heart-wrenching moments in the film, as we see innocent lives slipping away, one by one. The second part of the film shifts its focus to the Norwegian government's response to the crisis. The story follows Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg (Ola G. Furuseth), who is faced with the daunting task of calming the nation amidst the chaos. Stoltenberg, along with his advisors, struggles to maintain a level head, while also ensuring that his government provides adequate support to the victims' families. This section also introduces us to the character of Lars Gahr-Storesund (Michael Asheim), a dedicated prosecutor who becomes determined to bring Breivik to justice. Gahr-Storesund and his team must navigate the complexities of Norwegian law, while also dealing with the emotional toll of the tragedy. As the government scrambles to respond, the survivors of the Utøya massacre begin to process their trauma. In a poignant sequence, Viljar and several other survivors recount their experiences, revealing the emotional scars they carry. This moment not only sheds light on the psychological impact of the events but also serves as a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit. The final section of the film revolves around the trial of Anders Behring Breivik. As the proceedings unfold, we see a glimpse into the mind of the accused, a complex and disturbing individual who has a warped sense of reality. Through his testimony, Breivik reveals a chilling justification for his actions, one rooted in his twisted ideology. The film concludes with the sentencing of Breivik to 21 years in prison, a relatively lenient sentence considering the severity of his crimes. While the film leaves us with a sense of justice being served, the overall tone is one of sorrow and reflection. 22 July serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of terrorism and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Paul Greengrass's direction masterfully weaves together the narratives of the survivors, the Norwegian government, and the lawyers involved. Through its thought-provoking and unflinching portrayal of a heinous crime, the film raises essential questions about politics, ideology, and the nature of evil. Ultimately, 22 July is a tribute to the young lives lost on Utøya Island and a powerful tribute to the enduring strength of the human spirit. By presenting a nuanced and multifaceted account of the events, the film encourages viewers to engage with the complexities of the narrative. We are forced to confront our own moral assumptions and question the actions of those responsible for shaping our society. Ultimately, 22 July is a haunting and unflinching drama that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer. With its thought-provoking themes and powerful performances, the film serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of promoting tolerance, empathy, and understanding in our communities. The film also brings attention to an essential aspect of Norwegian culture: the concept of "hygge." Hygge, a word often used in everyday conversations, roughly translates to a feeling of coziness and community. This feeling of connection and unity is evident in the Labor Party Youth Camp's camaraderie and shared values, making the film all the more poignant. Through its masterful storytelling, Paul Greengrass's 22 July delivers a thought-provoking and unforgettable cinematic experience that is both a tribute to the lives lost and an exploration of the complexities of human nature. The film is an essential watch for anyone interested in drama, history, or the complexities of human behavior.