King of Devil's Island

"King of Devil's Island" is the latest stunning film to come out of Scandinavia. Released last year, this fact-based Norwegian offering stars Swedish star Stellan Skarsgård (who played Martin Vanger in the American version of "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo") as the cold, aloof governor of a boys' reformatory school. The island prison, Bastøy, which operated until the late 1940s, was characterized by a regiment of physical labor, discipline and abuse, all under the guidance of Christian charitable organizations. The arrival of new boys Erling (Benjamin Helstad) and Ivar (Magnus Langlete) sparks a chain of events that ultimately ignite rebellion. Helstad was honored with Best Newcomer Performance at the Edinburgh Film Festival, and the film won the best picture award at the Norwegian International Film Festival in 2011. The film's Norwegian setting is stark yet picturesque. Due to subject matter, "King of Devil's Island" is recommended for mature viewers. Sons of Norway-Heimsyn Lodge will provide refreshments. Tuesday, November 13, 6:30 p.m. Norwegian with subtitles.