The River

Synopsis

The River (original title: Elven) is a 2017 Norwegian drama series that delves into the haunting realities of death and loss within a small, rural community. The story centers around a troubled family who must navigate their personal demons while confronting the devastation left by the drowning of a young boy in the local river. As secrets unravel and the residents reflect on their intertwined fates, the series explores themes of grief, redemption, and the attempt to find solace amidst tragedy. Led by the compelling performances of its cast, The River invites viewers into a captivating narrative filled with emotional intensity and a visceral connection to the elemental forces of nature that shape human experience. With its moody setting and beautifully shot visuals, the show juxtaposes the serene, yet ominous nature of the river with the tumultuous lives of the characters, creating an atmospheric backdrop that enhances the story's depth and emotional resonance.

Cast

• Espen Reboli Bjerke

  Thomas Lønnhøiden

• 

  Ingeborg Raustøl

  Mia Holt

• 

  Thomas Hayes

  August Wildhagen

• 

  Dennis Storhøi

  Dahl

• 

  Stig Henrik Hoff

  Bjørn

• Ánna Mággá Wigelius

  Grace Anti

Reviews

The River, while offering a unique premise and a captivating visual experience, has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. With an IMDb rating of 5.6/10, many viewers appreciate the show's atmospheric storytelling and characterization but noted it falls short in pacing and plot development. According to the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, the consensus acknowledges it as a 'visually striking but narratively uneven exploration of grief.' Some praised the performances, stating that 'the cast delivers deeply affecting portrayals that ground the show's emotional core.' However, others critiqued the series for its slow pace and lack of coherence, with one critic from Metacritic lamenting, 'The River struggles to maintain momentum, leaving viewers feeling adrift.' Despite its shortcomings, the visuals and themes have resonated with some audiences, leading to a segment of fans who appreciate the melancholic atmosphere and lyrical storytelling even if the execution leaves something to be desired. The series has sparked conversation about the portrayal of personal loss and community bonding, making it a poignant experience for those seeking a deeper narrative exploration.