The Lost Disney Hyperborea Film - Kino Nordic Film Analysis

In the quest to find a good Viking movie, I came across an undiscovered Disney film called The Island at The Top of The World!

More media analysis videos like this one: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtdIKeRe0L3hFyd771tRc3E6_NuZPjcYh

NordHugr Merch: https://nordhugr.creator-spring.com

Chapters:

00:00 🌍 Introduction to The Island at The Top of The World

The Island at The Top of The World is a 1974 Disney film set in the early 1900s, following adventurers on a quest to find a lost city near the North Pole.

Themes and settings are markedly different from recent Disney films, embracing classic adventure storytelling.

Inspired by Jules Verne's works, the film involves an airship expedition to the far North, where adventurers crash-land on an uncharted island.

02:08 ❄️ Encounter with Viking-Like Society

The cast encounters a Viking-like society speaking Old Norse, capturing them and leading them to the lost city of Astrogard.

The film portrays Vikings more civilized, living in harmony with nature, and challenges modern stereotypes.

Action sequences, peril, romance, and wonder unfold as the characters navigate the exotic land.

03:38 🕵️ Professor Iverson's Transformation

Professor Iverson, a Scandinavian American historian, joins the quest to find Sir Anthony Ross's son.

Initially skeptical about the legendary island, Iverson is awe-struck upon discovering the real Astragard.

At the end, Iverson decides to stay and experience the life and history of Astragard.

04:57 🌐 The People of Astragard

The inhabitants of Astragard are Scandinavians and the film celebrates the characters and countries it portrays, emphasizing classic European adventure storytelling.

It offers a refreshing departure from modern depictions, presenting a more natural feel to the Viking way of life.

07:28 🏞️ Aesthetics and Setting of Astragard

The setting is visually beautiful, with 1974 special effects showcasing stunning map paintings of the environment.

The landscapes are reminiscent of Norway, with vibrant colors and grand Nordic aesthetics.

Speculation arises about the impact on history and archaeology if a real-life lost Viking land like Astragard were discovered.

08:39 🌍 Potential Modern-Day Implications

Raises questions about how Astragard, if discovered today, would be treated politically, culturally, and economically.

Comparing to real-world examples like Bhutan, questioning if Astragard could maintain its ancient ways.

Explores the potential influence Astragard could have on global perspectives towards traditional ways of life.