Decoding 'The Snowman': When Winter Thrills Go Cold
Winter brings cozy sweaters and hot cocoa. But what about serial killers leaving snowmen? It's unsettling. "The Snowman," a 2017 film, aimed for Nordic noir thrills but missed the mark. Let’s explore this movie. We will peel back layers like an onion without tears but with confusion.
Unraveling the Plot: A Snowy Maze
The official synopsis tells us, "For Detective Harry Hole, the death of a young woman during winter's first snowfall feels like anything but routine. His investigation leads him to 'The Snowman Killer,' an elusive sociopath who taunts Hole with games." Sounds engaging, right? Another synopsis elaborates, "As the murders increase, Harry teams up with a recruit to lure the madman out of shadow." Teamwork is essential for stopping creepy killers.
The Enigmatic Snowman Killer: Motives in the Frost
Now, who is this sinister figure? In Norway, a "damaged star detective" seeks a killer leaving snowmen and bodies behind. The film suggests this killer is a mastermind using snowmen as cards. But what drives him? Is it a quirky thing or something deeper? The film teases intriguing questions for suspense. Whether it delivers satisfying answers is debatable.
Harry Hole's Hunt: Following the Icy Trail
Detective Harry Hole continues his pursuit. As the synopsis reminds us, “For Detective Harry Hole, the young woman's death during winter feels far from routine. His investigation leads him to 'The Snowman Killer,' a clever sociopath taunting Hole." Harry is in a psychological duel with a killer fond of snowmen. We’re to be riveted as Harry assembles clues. Each snowman serves as a twisted breadcrumb. Will he catch the killer before more deaths occur?
The Frigid Finale: Death on Ice and a New Case
Let's examine the ending. No spoilers, yet it raises questions on the film’s logic. The climax features a confrontation with Mathias, our Snowman Killer. Before Harry can seize him, Mathias drowns after falling through the ice. What a chilling finale. One description notes, "Before he finishes him, Mathias falls into the water." So, no showdown; just a watery fate for the antagonist.
The film doesn't stop there. "The last scene shows Harry, with a metal prosthesis for his finger, volunteering for a new homicide case." An artificial finger and a fresh case? That seems rapid. The joke feels like “Killer drowned, case closed. What’s next?” Is this closure? Satisfaction varies across viewers.
Family Frostbite: Harry, Rakel, and Oleg's Tangled Web
Now, who are Rakel and Oleg? This isn't merely a killer-capture tale; personal drama layers it. "Harry Hole is a brilliant but troubled inspector... dealing with his breakup with Rakel and her new connection to Mathias." The Snowman Killer dated Harry's ex. That's just awkward. And Oleg? "Harry was close to her son Oleg, unaware he’s Harry's biological father." What a soap opera twist! Harry’s battle isn't just external; it's deeply personal, adding emotional complexity.
Adaptation on Ice: From Page to Screen
"The Snowman" didn't start on screen. It began as a book. We're referring to Jo Nesbø's 2007 novel. "There is a 2017 film called The Snowman based on the 2007 novel of the same name," reads sources. This film attempts to adapt cherished literature into cinematic art. Adaptations face challenges; can the film capture the book's essence? Many say learned... not so much.
Raymond Briggs' Snowy Inspiration: A Different Kind of Snowman
Wait, there's another "Snowman" in culture, a gentler one. Raymond Briggs' "The Snowman," a children's book and animated film, differs starkly from killers. Is there a thread connecting them? Yes, but subtly. "No, The Snowman is not based on a true story, but it draws inspiration from Raymond Briggs' life." Briggs experienced loss, giving way to a melancholy perspective in his original tale. This unique link contrasts the innocence found in Briggs' story with Nesbø's ominous thriller.
Book vs. Film: A Blizzard of Differences
Adaptations often differ, and "The Snowman" film exemplifies that. Both versions feature Mathias Lund-Helgesen, the killer – "Mathias Lund-Helgesen, also known as The Snowman Killer." However, the methods for revealing his identity vary. In the novel, "In The Snowman, Harry Hole identifies Mathias as the killer" through keen detective work. The film’s portrayal—a point of contention among viewers—departs from the book's clarity, causing friction with fans. Purists might feel frostbitten after viewing.
Critical Avalanche: Reception and Production Fumbles
"The Snowman" did not receive a warm response. Critics were harsh, while audiences felt confused. The film's quality has been described as problematic. One review states bluntly, "To sum up, The Snowman has many issues: poor editing, convoluted plot, indifferent performances, and Val Kilmer seems pained most times." Ouch, indeed. "Bad editing," is just the outset of significant critiques.
"Incomprehensible plot" and "bored performances" create a trifecta of disappointment. Val Kilmer's pained appearance adds insult to injury.
Production on Thin Ice: Rushed Shoots and Missing Pieces
What went wrong? Behind-the-scenes stories reveal a troubled production. Director Tomas Alfredson stated, "The production was rushed, and 10%-15% of the script was not filmed." Ten to fifteen percent missing? It’s like making a snowman and forgetting critical parts. Alfredson explained, "Our shoot time in Norway was too short. We discovered much was missing during cuts. It's like a jigsaw puzzle missing some pieces." Missing jigsaw puzzle pieces are frustrating; missing movie plot parts explain the "incomprehensible plot" criticism.
Wasted Potential: A Chilling Disappointment
Is "The Snowman" simply a bad film or something more tragic? Some see wasted potential. One review notes, "The Snowman may not be the worst film of 2017 but it's clearly the biggest waste of potential. Alfredson's suggestion that some crucial scenes weren't filmed seems accurate as characters come and go, and important story strands are overlooked." "Waste of potential" fits like a glove. Talented actors, a popular book, and stunning Norwegian locations – it had ingredients for a great thriller. Yet, it melted under pressure due to production issues and other factors.
A Sad Snowman: Melancholy in the Frost
Speaking of melting, let’s address the sadness of snowmen. Anyone who enjoyed Raymond Briggs' The Snowman remembers its sad ending. The animated film is famous for its bittersweet conclusion. This melancholy might unintentionally contribute to the somber tone of the 2017 thriller, even if for different reasons. Each snowman embodies fleeting beauty and inevitable disappearance.
Val Kilmer's Silent Snowfall: Voice and Visibility
Val Kilmer conjures images of Iceman from "Top Gun," Jim Morrison from "The Doors," and a character in "The Snowman" with an unusual voice. Yes, let's tackle the obvious issue: Val Kilmer's voice in this movie isn’t really his. “All of Val Kilmer's lines are dubbed throughout the film.” A dubbed voice in a major film? Absolutely. It stands out, adding to the movie's disjointed feel.
The Reason Behind the Dubbing: A Voice Lost and Found
Why was it dubbed? It’s not merely stylistic; circumstances played a role. Kilmer’s voice was dubbed due to throat cancer treatment. “In May 2017, during a Reddit AMA, Kilmer shared that he had 'a healing of cancer,' and his tongue 'was still swollen yet healing.' Alfredson said production was rushed.” Kilmer's treatment impacted his voice. "He lost speaking ability after undergoing throat cancer treatment in 2014." The necessary treatments, while saving his life, affected his vocal cords. "Val Kilmer faced throat cancer in his 50s, undergoing intense chemotherapy and radiation. Though the treatment left his cancer in remission, it also robbed him of his natural voice." The dubbing was not ideal but essential due to Kilmer's health and the rushed production schedule.
Kilmer's Comeback: "Top Gun: Maverick" and Beyond
Val Kilmer’s career faced challenges, yet it has seen resurgence. His role in "Top Gun: Maverick" was both poignant and celebrated. "Going into 'Top Gun: Maverick,' Kilmer's role was uncertain." His return as Iceman was nostalgic but also a testament to his resilience. In "Top Gun: Maverick," Kilmer used technology to restore his voice, enhancing the emotional depth of his scenes. It reminded audiences of his strong presence and friendship with Tom Cruise. "Yes, Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer share a long-standing friendship." Their chemistry and bond make their reunion in "Maverick" special.
Norway as Noir-way: Filming Locations
"The Snowman" shines in visuals. The film is set in Norway, offering breathtaking, though bleak, scenery for the thriller. "Was The Snowman filmed in Norway?" Yes. Specifically, "The Snowman also-shot in places like Nottoden, Rjukan, and Drammen. It's unclear which scenes were shot where, but most of the film took place in Oslo, creating a beautiful backdrop for a terrifying tale." Oslo, Nottoden, Rjukan, and Drammen add authenticity to the Nordic atmosphere, even if the plot falters.
Norway on Film: Beyond the Snowman
Norway's dramatic landscapes are popular filming locations beyond crime thrillers. Think "Mission: Impossible." "Mission: Impossible locations in Norway provide backdrops for cinema's biggest stunts." From Tom Cruise hanging off cliffs to snowy chases, Norway offers striking visuals. The stark beauty of Norway in "The Snowman" is perhaps its strongest asset, even if it can't save the overall cinematic experience.
Thematic Deep Freeze: Messages and Meanings
Beneath snowmen and serial killings, what is "The Snowman" trying to convey? The thematic clues may lie in the inspiration from Raymond Briggs' original work. Briggs sought to depict life and death cycles. "He always intended his stories to convey death. 'I don't write happy endings,' Briggs mentioned to The Radio Times. 'I create what feels natural and inevitable. The Snowman melts, my parents died, animals die, flowers die.'" His worldview, shaped by loss, resonates throughout his stories. "It's a grief-filled image that leaves readers with a message haunting his adult life: everything passes." This theme of mortality, while not explicitly stated in the thriller, resonates with the fragility of snowmen – here today, gone tomorrow.
Snowman Symbolism: Winter's Ephemeral Hope
Snowmen symbolize much. "People build them to cope with winter’s harshness and symbolize hope for spring." In various cultures, snowmen embody resilience amid winter and anticipation of warmer days. Their temporary nature offers fleeting joy during the cold season. Perhaps the Snowman Killer’s use of snowmen reflects life’s fleeting nature – a grim reminder of impermanence.
Briggs' Personal Snowstorm: Loss and Inspiration
Raymond Briggs' creation of "The Snowman" is deeply personal, stemming from profound loss. "Briggs wrote The Snowman after enduring significant losses. His decision not to have children with Jean due to her mental illness meant total solitude after her death. 'That was a bleak time. I contemplated suicide.'" Briggs' tragedies shaped his work with melancholy realism. "The Snowman," gently teaches lessons about loss and the transient nature of joy. This emotional depth contrasts sharply with the often-fuzzy thematic execution in the 2017 thriller.
Character Breakdown: Frosty Personalities
Now, let’s meet key players in this snowy drama. First, we have
the antagonist leaves snowmen everywhere: Mathias Lund-Helgesen. "Who is the serial killer in The Snowman? Mathias Lund-Helgesen is responsible for the killings. Harry and Katrine suspect many potential killers... At the end, Harry discovers Mathias is the killer." Mathias, played by Jonas Karlsson, orchestrates everything. "Mathias Lund-Helgesen, also called The Snowman Killer, is the main antagonist." Clues and red herrings abound, but it is Mathias who emerges as the culprit. "Mathias is responsible for the killings. At the end, Harry discovers Mathias has been the killer." Harry and Mathias interact several times throughout the film, but Harry fails to connect the clues... until the dramatic reveal.
Harry Hole: The Troubled Detective
This brings us to our protagonist, Harry Hole. "Harry Hole is a brilliant inspector with the Norwegian Police Service's Oslo district. He struggles with his break-up with his girlfriend Rakel and her new relationship with Mathias, a surgeon." Harry is the flawed hero. He excels at his job but battles personal demons, including a tangled love life. His backstory, with Rakel and Oleg, enriches him, making him more than just a crime-solver.
Oleg: The Unknowing Son
Now there’s Oleg. "Harry is very close to Oleg, who does not know Harry is his biological father." Oleg is Rakel's son and unaware Harry is his real father. This hidden parentage complicates Harry's life further. Oleg can become both a link and a source of tension, drawing Harry deeper into the Snowman Killer case.
Raymond Briggs' Original Snowman: A Winter Classic
Now let’s revisit the gentler version: Raymond Briggs' snowman. What sparked this children's classic? "No, The Snowman is not a true story, but it was inspired by Raymond Briggs' life." Briggs’ experiences shaped his storytelling, particularly loss. He found inspiration in everyday moments. "Briggs stated that a snowy morning in Westmeston inspired the book. His prior book Fungus the Bogeyman also played a role." A snowy morning and Fungus the Bogeyman – quirky sources for a snowman tale.
Animated Snowfall: Briggs' Book Comes to Life
Briggs' wordless picture book, "The Snowman," came out in 1978 and became an instant classic. "The Snowman is a picture book by British author Raymond Briggs published in 1978. It explores themes of imagination, friendship, love, and loss." These themes resonate with readers of all ages. In 1982, an animated film adaptation assured its place in popular culture. "It was adapted into an animated television film in 1982." The animated version boasts iconic music and emotional depth, often more recognizable than the book itself, especially in the UK.
Themes of Innocence and Impermanence: Briggs' Snowman Legacy
"The Snowman" book and film are filled with themes. "The Snowman is a wordless picture book by British author Raymond Briggs first published in 1978. It delves into imagination, friendship, love, and loss." These universal themes transcend age and culture. The story highlights life's beauty and fragility, fleeting joy, and inevitable change.
Briggs' Bleak Outlook: "Ghastly" Endings and Real Life
Raymond Briggs' life story influenced his artistic vision significantly. "Briggs experienced tragedy and avoided happy endings in his work. The tale of The Snowman has a 'ghastly' ending." He embraced sadness, believing life's endings are rarely neat or happy. This realism defines his work and ensures the profound impact of "The Snowman," even with its unsettling ending described as "ghastly."
David Bowie's Frosty Cameo: A Rock Star in Snow
Lastly, let's address a surprising element in some animated "Snowman" versions: David Bowie. Yes, the iconic Starman appears. "Names like Laurence Olivier and Julie Andrews were considered; however, a request for a rock star led to David Bowie joining." Traditional figures were on the table initially, but something unique was sought that led to Bowie's involvement. His presence brought an unexpected cool to this beloved classic.
Why Bowie? Rock and Snow Collide
Why did they choose David Bowie? Why mix rock with a children's Christmas tale? "Various names such as Laurence Olivier and Julie Andrews were discussed, but a push for a rock star led to David Bowie." Choosing Bowie was inspired brilliance that infused contemporary cool into "The Snowman." His cameo offers a delightful surprise for older viewers in this children's tale. "Some animated classic versions feature Bowie in a live-action intro where he plays an adult version of a boy whose snowman comes to life. He retrieves the scarf left behind after the snowman melted." Bowie’s touching scene adds warmth to this bittersweet tale.
In conclusion, "The Snowman" movie aimed for chilling Nordic noir but turned out critical snowdrift instead. Plagued by production problems and plot flaws, it lost its intended icy grip. However, when considering the broader "Snowman" universe from Raymond Briggs' poignant work to Bowie's cameo, we discover themes and emotions that run deep. Perhaps the ultimate takeaway from "The Snowman" – in all forms – is about winter's fleeting beauty, loss's chill, and stories' enduring power, even if some stories, like the 2017 thriller, leave us cold.
For more insights, check out reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, explore this Wikipedia page for an overview, or uncover the darker inspirations behind Raymond Briggs' work.
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