Polar (2019) – A Stylishly Violent Hitman Thriller That Packs a Punch
Explore the explosive world of Polar (2019), the Netflix action-thriller starring Mads Mikkelsen as a retired assassin hunted by his own agency. Discover why this neo-noir spectacle has become a cult favorite.
Introduction
Released in January 2019 on Netflix, Polar is an adrenaline-pumping action thriller that fuses comic-book aesthetics with brutal violence and dark humor. Directed by Jonas Åkerlund and based on the graphic novel Polar: Came from the Cold by Victor Santos, the film stars Mads Mikkelsen in one of his most badass roles yet—as a weary hitman pulled back into a world he tried to leave behind.
Plot Summary
Polar (2019) follows Duncan Vizla, a legendary assassin also known as The Black Kaiser. Days before his forced retirement, Duncan becomes the target of his own organization, Damocles, which eliminates older assassins to avoid paying their pensions. As young killers come after him, Duncan is forced to unleash his deadly skills to survive.
Meanwhile, Duncan forms a bond with a mysterious neighbor, Camille (Vanessa Hudgens), whose past trauma ties into his own. The result is a thrilling and emotional collision course packed with high-octane action, dark twists, and a cold-blooded revenge arc.
Cast and Performances
-
Mads Mikkelsen delivers a phenomenal performance, balancing stoic calm with deadly intensity.
-
Vanessa Hudgens surprises with a vulnerable and emotional turn, offering a humanizing contrast to the chaos.
-
Matt Lucas plays the eccentric villain, Mr. Blut, adding a bizarre and flamboyant flair to the film’s tone.
Visual Style and Direction
One of Polar's standout features is its visual direction. Director Jonas Åkerlund, known for his work on music videos, uses stylized editing, high-contrast lighting, and saturated colors to give the movie a graphic novel look. The ultra-violent fight scenes are choreographed with precision and creativity, drawing comparisons to films like John Wick and Sin City.
Polar (2019)
Why Polar Stands Out
-
Graphic Novel Roots: The source material gives the film a unique visual identity.
-
Neo-Noir Elements: Gritty, stylish, and morally ambiguous.
-
Emotional Depth: Despite its violence, Polar explores themes of redemption and trauma.
-
Unapologetically Bold: It doesn't shy away from extreme violence, making it a hit among fans of hardcore action.
Reception and Cult Following
While Polar received mixed reviews from critics—some praised its style while others criticized its tonal shifts—it quickly gained a cult following. Fans of graphic novel adaptations and action cinema appreciate its unfiltered energy and Mikkelsen’s gripping performance.
On platforms like IMDb, Polar has continued to trend as an underrated action gem. It also sparked rumors of potential sequels or spin-offs, though no official follow-up has been confirmed.
Final Verdict
Polar (2019) is a love letter to fans of ultra-violent, stylized action movies. With a gripping performance from Mads Mikkelsen, eye-popping visuals, and a pulpy narrative, it's a film that embraces its genre roots and delivers pure entertainment. Whether you’re a fan of hitman thrillers or gritty graphic novel adaptations, Polar is a must-watch.
