"Number 24" – A Riveting Tale of Resistance and Sacrifice During WWII
"Number 24," directed by Norwegian filmmaker John Andreas Andersen, is an emotionally powerful historical drama that takes viewers into the turbulent world of WWII resistance fighters. Based on the real-life exploits of Gunnar Sønsteby, a key figure in the Norwegian resistance, the film immerses audiences in a story of courage, survival, and personal sacrifice. Released globally on Netflix on January 1, 2025, "Number 24" offers an intense cinematic experience that blends thrilling espionage with deep emotional conflict.
The movie opens in the present day, where an elderly Gunnar Sønsteby (played by Erik Hivju) is preparing to speak to a group of young students. His nervousness is palpable, reflecting the emotional scars from his past. The film shifts seamlessly between his lecture and vivid flashbacks to the 1930s, portraying Gunnar’s early life and the ideological rift between him and his best friend, Erling Solheim. While Erling remains unconcerned about the rise of the Nazis, Gunnar is deeply troubled by their growing power. This contrast sets the stage for Gunnar's decision to join the Norwegian resistance and embark on a perilous journey as a saboteur.
As Gunnar’s story unfolds, we see him evolve from a determined young man into a master of covert operations. He carries out sabotage missions with quiet determination and sharp intellect, earning him the codename “Number 24.” His role in the resistance becomes more dangerous as he navigates a world of deception, betrayal, and constant threats. The tension is heightened by the film's portrayal of espionage sequences where Gunnar and his comrades plant explosives in Nazi-controlled areas, keeping viewers on edge with every move.
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Director Andersen, known for his work on disaster films like The Quake , proves his versatility by creating an intense, gripping narrative that never compromises on character depth. Gunnar’s stoic personality makes him an unlikely hero, and yet, his dedication to the cause and his meticulous planning make him an extraordinary figure in the face of overwhelming odds. The film does not focus on the thrill of escape but rather on the toll such a life takes on its participants. Gunnar’s resilience is contrasted with the emotional cost of his actions, particularly when he faces moral questions from the students he addresses. One young woman’s question about why he didn’t follow Gandhi’s principles of non-violence rather than resort to assassination strikes at the core of his beliefs. Gunnar’s blunt response, “Gandhi didn’t face the Nazis,” encapsulates the unwavering conviction that guides his decisions.
Despite some critiques regarding the use of Radiohead’s Exit Music (For a Film) in a period setting, which feels tonally misplaced, the film excels in portraying the stark choices that defined the resistance. The audience is pulled into a world of unrelenting tension, where the stakes are not just survival, but the very freedom of Norway. The cast, led by Sjur Vatne Brean as young Gunnar, delivers performances that authentically bring the resistance movement to life, making "Number 24" not just a war film, but a poignant exploration of duty and sacrifice.
So, "Number 24" is an unflinching portrayal of one man’s dedication to his country in the face of oppression. While it focuses heavily on Gunnar Sønsteby’s actions, it also paints a vivid picture of the emotional weight carried by those who fought for freedom during WWII. The film’s immersive storytelling, powerful performances, and historical significance make it a must-watch for anyone interested in tales of bravery and resilience.
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