The Valhalla Murders

Iceland’s first Netflix crime series centers on Reykjavík detective Kata Gunnarsdóttir and Oslo-based profiler Arnar Böðvarsson as they investigate a series of brutal murders. Each victim is found stabbed and mutilated, especially around the eyes, with connections to the notorious Valhalla boys’ home, known for its history of child abuse in the 1980s.

Kata struggles with personal issues, including being passed over for promotion and difficulties with her teenage son, while Arnar returns from exile, carrying his own painful family secrets. Their partnership is complex, marked by tension but also mutual respect, forming the emotional backbone of the show.

The investigation reveals a dark past of physical and sexual abuse at the boys’ home, with a mysterious figure branding children with a heated hook. The prime suspect is Kristján, a survivor who embarks on a vigilante mission. As the case unfolds, it exposes institutional corruption and complicity, adding layers to the crime beyond simple murder.

Visually, the show excels with haunting Icelandic landscapes contrasted by cold, clinical interiors in Reykjavík. The Nordic noir style is apparent, with moody cinematography and atmospheric pacing. While the story progresses deliberately, some viewers might find the pace slow, though the tension gradually builds to a satisfying conclusion.

Performances by Nína Dögg Filippusdóttir (Kata) and Björn Thors (Arnar) are notable for their depth and emotional nuance, effectively portraying grief, moral conflict, and the psychological burden of the case. The series also thoughtfully addresses sensitive issues like child abuse, institutional silence, and the impact of religious ostracism.

Critically, The Valhalla Murders is regarded as a strong entry in the Nordic noir genre, praised for its storytelling and atmospheric strength, though its deliberate pacing may not suit all audiences. It offers a haunting, layered exploration of trauma, justice, and redemption, making it compelling viewing for fans of thoughtful, character-driven crime dramas.