Vikings have fascinated audiences for decades. Their brutal raids, fearless exploration, and rich mythology offer fertile ground for storytelling. From large-scale cinematic epics to slow-burning historical series, the Viking theme continues to thrive on screens big and small. Below are ten gripping titles—movies and series—that plunge you into the world of Norse warriors, ancient gods, and blood-soaked quests.
1. Vikings (2013–2020)
Let’s start with a heavyweight. Vikings is arguably the best Viking TV show ever created. Developed by Michael Hirst, the series traces the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok’s rise from farmer to Scandinavian king. It’s not just about battles—it’s a meditation on loyalty, betrayal, and faith. Over six seasons, it weaves in the violent expansion of Viking influence across Europe. According to Nielsen reports, by Season 4, the show averaged over 7 million viewers per episode globally.
2. The Northman (2022)
Directed by Robert Eggers, The Northman is a haunting, surreal take on a Viking revenge saga. Based loosely on the legend of Amleth (which inspired Shakespeare’s Hamlet), this film stars Alexander Skarsgård in a brutal, muscular performance. It’s not your average vikings movie—raw, atmospheric, and strangely spiritual. The cinematography is striking, the violence unforgiving. Aesthetically, it’s closer to a fever dream than a history lesson.
3. Valhalla Rising (2009)
Nicholas Winding Refn’s Valhalla Rising isn’t for everyone. Sparse dialogue, slow pacing, and philosophical undertones set it apart. But if you’re looking for a moody, existential exploration of Viking life, this one stands alone. The film stars Mads Mikkelsen as One-Eye, a silent warrior with supernatural strength. It’s part horror, part historical, part hallucination. It pulls you under rather than entertains you.
4. Vikings: Valhalla (2022–present)
This spin-off to Vikings launched on Netflix and carries the torch forward. Set 100 years after Ragnar’s time, it focuses on real-life figures like Leif Erikson and Harald Hardrada. With high production value and relentless action, it captures a world teetering between the old gods and rising Christianity.
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5. The Last Kingdom (2015–2022)
Based on Bernard Cornwell’s Saxon Stories, this series takes place during the Viking invasion of England. It follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon raised by Danes. While not technically a movie about vikings entry, the series brilliantly portrays Viking culture clashing with Anglo-Saxon politics. Rotten Tomatoes gave its final season a solid 91% approval rating. Gritty, character-driven, and surprisingly emotional.
6. Outlaw: The Saga of Gisli (1981)
A rare gem from Iceland, Outlaw adapts one of the classic Icelandic sagas. Shot in 16mm and with a low-budget charm, it tells the story of Gisli Sursson—a man torn between loyalty and survival. This one’s less known internationally but holds deep cultural value. There’s a rawness here, a sense of myth embedded in every frame.
7. Beowulf & Grendel (2005)
A grittier, less fantastical take on the Beowulf legend. This film blends the monster tale with harsh Icelandic landscapes and a conflicted hero. While it lacks the polish of big-budget adaptations, its grounded tone and moral ambiguity make it an intriguing entry into the Viking mythos.
8. How to Train Your Dragon Trilogy (2010–2019)
Wait—animated dragons? Yes. But don’t underestimate this franchise. It may be aimed at a younger audience, but it’s deeply rooted in Norse inspiration. The aesthetics, ship design, and tribal society mirror Viking culture. Critics praised it for depth, with How to Train Your Dragon 2 earning a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes and an Oscar nomination. Kids love it, but so do adults who pay attention.
9. Northmen: A Viking Saga (2014)
If you’re in the mood for action, this one doesn’t disappoint. A group of exiled Vikings crashes on enemy shores and must fight their way to safety. It’s a straight shot of sword-swinging, mud-splattered adrenaline. Historical accuracy? Not much. Fun factor? High. Sometimes that’s all you need.
10. Vinland Saga (2019–present)
An anime with Viking themes? Absolutely. Vinland Saga is based on historical events and dramatizes the life of explorer Thorfinn Karlsefni. It’s surprisingly accurate and incredibly intense. The animation is top-tier, and the storytelling explores pacifism, revenge, and the price of violence. It brings new energy to the Viking narrative. With over 1.5 million viewers tuning in across platforms for Season 2, it’s earned its place.
Final Thoughts
The world of Viking stories is vast. Some titles lean into bloodshed and chaos, others explore the philosophical, even spiritual dimensions of Norse life. Whether you’re after high-octane battles, intimate character arcs, or something cerebral, this genre has something to offer.
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Featured image by Austin Lowman on Unsplash
