LORDS OF CHAOS
Jonas Åkerlund (2018)
5 STARS
Norwegian black metal is more than a sub-genre of music, it’s a lifestyle, it’s terrifying, and it makes for a damn good film. Lords of Chaos follows the founder of real-life band 'Mayhem' through the shocking and taboo events of his life.
Reminiscent of films like Goodfellas and Casino, this biopic of sorts follows the arguable rise and inevitable downfall of Euronymous, played by Rory Kulkin who flourishes in the dark role. The casting of Jewish actor Emory Cohen to play Varg appropriately acts as a fuck you to the Nazi who was in prison during production.
Excellent special effects enhance the sinister tone. However, this does make for some incredibly shocking sequences. One scene in particular will upset some viewers and, allegedly, led to multiple faintings on cinematic release. These violent acts are amped up throughout and, by the realistically gruesome finale, audiences will be recalling the killing of birds and cats with fond nostalgia.
This film is not for everyone and if you plan on checking it out, prepare yourself. Even the most likeable characters commit abhorrent crimes and the visuals are truly upsetting. If you can stomach it though, this is a must watch.