Rating of
3/4
An Origin Story That Brings the Thunder
Chris Kavan - wrote on 11/08/20
Origin stories are a dime a dozen these days - because, you know, every hero needs one - even those we know so well. Thus director André Øvredal has a task set out before him: how to make a compelling origin while crafting a likewise story. And while Mortal falls into some familiar territory along the way, for the most part it does manage to stand out from the crowd.
The set-up is thus: Eric (Nat Wolff) is having a tough time. He's hiding in the wilds of the Norwegian woods, supporting a rather injured leg and stealing what he needs from a nearby town. However, everything changes when a group of teens harasses him - leading to a sudden death and shortly thereafter, incarceration. Enter Christine (Iben Akerlie), a psychologist who is tasked with learning the truth about what happened - only to find out Eric is harboring some wondrous and dangerous powers. But forming a quick bond, she manages to calm him down but shortly thereafter the government arrives and you know that can't be good.
Mortal is really about connection - and some light Norse mythology - but mainly connection. Eric is a mess of a man - from loud noises to claustrophobia, it seems anything can set off his newfound powers, which is not good for anyone who happens to be in his path. But Christine brings out the best in him, a calming presence in an otherwise turbulent world, and this connection only grows deeper as the film progresses. The main government agent, Hathaway (Priyanka Bose) also tries to rationalize things, but she is a bit more pragmatic - and that makes her more dangerous.
Moral isn't subtle about where Eric's powers come from - the giant lightning storm kind of gives things away, but it still manages to throw in some commentary about religion and blind devotion - along with some light rage and revenge. This all leads to a rather explosive end, and even leaves the door open for more. Honestly, the best part about Mortal is to see how a regular, perhaps slightly messed-up guy, deals with such power. This isn't Peter Parker - this is more like Chronicle - with great power comes much responsibility - but what happens when you don't have control? Nothing good - which is why that connection is so important.
