“Kraken” Delivers Slimy and Sloppy Fun

Kraken (Pål Øie, 2026) 3 out of 5 stars

Norwegian director Pål Øie (The Tunnel) delivers a film that dives deep into the mythological lore of one of the most treacherous sea creatures known. Kraken is about a fish-farming company that has overstepped its scientific research in herding salmon, unleashing a monster from the depths of Sognefjord, the deepest body of water in Norway. The team recruits the expertise of marine biologist, Johanne (Sara Khorami, Troll 2), to investigate the causes of strange phenomena, disappearing people, and fish so terrified that they beach themselves on the shore. As Johanne and the company, along with Johanne’s old friend Erik (Mikkel Bratt Silset, Havnaa), ask searching questions, they find that the answer is swimming towards them … with deadly consequences!

Kraken immediately pays wonderful homage to creature-features of the past. A brief opening interview-styled scene reminded me of The Blair Witch Project’s eerie opening, followed by themes of corporate greed and secrecy found in films like Jaws and Alien. The exposition paints a state-of-the-art picture of mass production salmon farming, with hints of international involvement and investment anticipate events to come. And as the ball gets rolling and humans start to perish from a deep-sea monstrosity, Øie delivers terrifying sequences of both smaller-but-deadly sea parasites and massive moments where the titular Kraken wreaks havoc.

Unfortunately, Øie succumbs to repetitiveness in the second half, and Kraken, while continuing to entertain, remains a by-the-numbers action film. Many of the themes established earlier fade away, and the message Øie originally set out to explore goes by the wayside. Very few moments had me compelled to follow any particular character, with the exception of Khorami as a strong female lead, particularly with her final showdown with the Kraken. Even though there are many notable performances, they take a backseat to lackluster writing and adequate-but-uninspired direction.

Despite the above, Øie never fails to deliver what is promised: a Kraken the size of Godzilla seeking revenge because his home and habitat are threatened by modern technology. As the film concluded, I walked away feeling satisfied with the premise, if underwhelmed by the overall execution. I applaud the use of artful special effects and setting, though I also yearned for a story that has more to say about science and modern culture than the appearance of a giant monster.

Adam Vaughn

Adam Vaughn is a graduate of the Film & Moving Image program at Stevenson University, with a focus in Cinematography and Production. He also has a minor in Theater and Media Performance. Adam works as a freelance photographer and videographer, focusing his craft on creating compelling photographic and cinematic imagery. Adam is excited to join the Film Festival Today team and explore the world of cinema and visual arts.