Scandinavian folklore is rich with tales of mystical creatures, from the mischievous trolls to the hauntingly beautiful Huldra. This curated list of films dives deep into the eerie and enchanting world of these legendary beings, offering viewers a unique blend of horror, fantasy, and cultural exploration. Whether you're a fan of folklore or just looking for a spine-chilling movie night, these films will transport you to the dark, mysterious forests of the North.

Valhalla Rising (2009)
Description: A mute warrior with a mysterious past embarks on a journey that blurs the lines between reality and Norse mythology, encountering visions and mystical beings.
Fact: The film was shot in Scotland, but its setting is meant to evoke the Viking Age. It features minimal dialogue, relying heavily on visual storytelling.


The Northman (2022)
Description: This epic Viking revenge tale includes elements of Norse mythology, with scenes involving the Valkyries and other mystical creatures from the sagas.
Fact: The film was directed by Robert Eggers, known for his meticulous attention to historical detail. It features a cast including Alexander Skarsgård and Nicole Kidman.


The Troll Hunter (2010)
Description: This Norwegian mockumentary follows a group of students who uncover the existence of trolls in Norway. It's a perfect blend of humor, horror, and folklore, making it a standout in this collection.
Fact: The film was shot in a documentary style, giving it an authentic feel. It was also Norway's submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in


The Last King (2016)
Description: While not directly about creatures, this film features a mystical element with a baby who might be the reincarnation of a legendary king, blending historical drama with folklore.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of the Birkebeiner ski race, which commemorates the rescue of the infant Haakon Haakonsson.


The Head Hunter (2018)
Description: While not explicitly about Scandinavian creatures, this film's setting and themes resonate with the dark, mystical elements of Norse folklore, featuring a warrior on a quest for vengeance.
Fact: The film was shot in Portugal but has a strong Viking aesthetic. It was made with a very low budget but has gained a cult following for its unique storytelling.


The Pact (2012)
Description: Although not directly about Scandinavian creatures, this film explores themes of folklore and supernatural beings, making it an interesting addition to the list for its eerie atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot in a real haunted house, adding to its chilling authenticity. It was also the directorial debut of Nicholas McCarthy.


Troll (2022)
Description: A modern-day adventure where a giant troll awakens in Oslo, blending urban settings with ancient folklore in a thrilling narrative.
Fact: This film was a Netflix original, marking a significant investment in Scandinavian cinema. It uses CGI to bring the troll to life in a very realistic manner.


Thale (2012)
Description: A cleaning crew discovers a mysterious woman in a basement, who turns out to be a Huldra, a creature from Norse mythology. This film explores the darker side of folklore with a modern twist.
Fact: The film was shot in a single location, enhancing the claustrophobic atmosphere. It was also the directorial debut of Aleksander L. Nordaas.


Border (2018)
Description: A customs officer with an unusual ability to smell human emotions discovers her true heritage, which ties her to the trolls of Scandinavian lore. This film blends social commentary with supernatural elements.
Fact: It won the Un Certain Regard award at the Cannes Film Festival. The makeup for the main character was inspired by actual folklore depictions of trolls.


The Ritual (2017)
Description: Four friends hiking in Sweden encounter a malevolent presence in the forest, which might be connected to ancient Norse mythology. This film combines psychological horror with elements of Scandinavian folklore.
Fact: The film was adapted from Adam Nevill's novel of the same name. It was filmed in the Carpathian Mountains in Romania, standing in for the Swedish wilderness.
