War films are a firm favourite among moviegoers. But while some become instant blockbusters, others quietly slip under the radar. One of them is The King’s Choice, a World War 2 drama that’s now available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime.
Film experts at MovieWeb recently compiled a list of “10 Underrated World War 2 Movies You’ve Never Heard Of”, and The King’s Choice made the cut. The experts praised the film for offering “a unique look at war by exploring the burdens and responsibilities faced by those in positions of leadership”.
Set during the German invasion of Norway in 1940, the film follows three tense days as King Haakon VII is forced to make a life-or-death decision for his country.
With Nazi forces closing in, the monarch faces growing pressure to surrender, but refuses to back down.
The Norwegian Royal Family plays a big role throughout the story.
The King’s Choice shows the King and Crown Prince Olav going into hiding, while Crown Princess Märtha and the children flee to Sweden for safety.
The film was directed by Erik Poppe and was Norway’s official entry for Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards.
It later made the shortlist of nine films under consideration for a nomination.
The movie was first screened at a private showing inside Oslo’s Royal Palace, where the entire present-day Norwegian royal family attended the premiere in 2016.
The King’s Choice has an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with both critics and viewers calling it a “standout piece of historical drama”.
One reviewer wrote: “This film showed the anguish of a King determined to let the people decide as a democratic country.
“The rawness of emotions were well acted as the Nazis invaded.”
Another said: “The Norwegian campaign is told through this gripping piece of storytelling. The king and crown prince are portrayed so well in their internal struggle to keep what little they have while keeping to the foundations of their country.”
A third added: “A brilliant piece of historical drama. Definitely on a par with other great films of this genre.”
The King’s Choice is now available to watch on Amazon Prime in the UK.