
Amundsen: The Greatest Expedition
By Monique Jones,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Explorer biopic has peril, messages of courage, curiosity.

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Amundsen: The Greatest Expedition
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What's the Story?
In AMUNDSEN: THE GREATEST EXPEDITION, Leon Amundsen (Christian Rubeck) recounts his younger brother Roald's (Pål Sverre Hagen) historic career as the first known person to reach the South Pole. Roald Amundsen lives a life of celebrity because of his expeditions, but his relationship with his brother crumbles as his fame rises and as his expeditions cause him to drift further from common ground with his family.
Is It Any Good?
This historical biopic offers a fascinating look at the life of one of the world's greatest explorers. As the first known person to reach the South Pole, Amundsen's fame is well-earned, but his private life turned out to be an expedition that Amundsen was less than equipped for. As the title character, Hagen does a tremendous job of portraying a person who quietly yet sternly lived life by his own rules, to the point of driving a wedge between himself and his brother. Rubeck does a similarly impressive job of portraying an older brother who simply wants to have the close relationship he once had with his younger sibling.
Director Espen Sandberg and cinematographer Pål Ulvik Rokseth showcase the expansive beauty and haunting quality of the Arctic and Antarctic through methodical pacing and panoramic shots, giving viewers an up-close look at the South Pole. Its harshness isn't glossed over; several scenes show how unforgiving the terrain can be. These scenes impress upon viewers how dangerous -- and how miraculous -- Amundsen's expeditions actually were. As a man who seemingly cheated death many times over, it makes sense that the film's final scenes show him looking death in the eye in the place closest to his heart: the Arctic wilderness.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Amundsen's interest in the South Pole. What do you think sparked his curiosity about nature and exploring?
Why did Amundsen decide to explore the South Pole? How did his perseverance help him in his expeditions? What about courage and teamwork?
How accurately do you think Amundsen: The Greatest Expedition reflects the events it's based on? Why might filmmakers choose to tweak the facts in biopics?
Movie Details
- In theaters: April 2, 2021
- On DVD or streaming: April 2, 2021
- Cast: Pål Sverre Hagen , Christian Rubeck , Katherine Waterson
- Director: Espen Sandberg
- Studio: Samuel Goldwyn Films
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: History , Science and Nature
- Character Strengths: Courage , Curiosity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time: 125 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 20, 2023
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