Kraken (2026) Review: A Fjord Monster Tale With Real Teeth

This Kraken review starts with a simple question: can Norway's monster-movie streak survive another trip into the water? Pål Øie's 2026 creature feature mixes action and drama in a fish-farm setting, and it mostly delivers the chills it promises. It is lean, practical and easy to follow.

Kraken Review: The Story So Far (No Spoilers)

The Kraken plot begins at a fish farm, where marine biologist Johanne (Sara Khorami) is carrying out research. Odd things keep happening around the pens, and she can't explain them. Then two teenagers die in brutal fashion, and suspicion turns toward the deep fjord.

That is as much as you need to know. The film builds its mystery around one question: is there something in the depths that people were never meant to disturb? The tagline, "Only 5% of the ocean has been explored for a reason," sums up the mood neatly.

The script comes from Vilde Eide, Kjersti Helen Rasmussen and Natasha Arthur. It follows the shape of a cautionary tale about meddling with nature, a theme that suits a farm built on the edge of unknown water.

What Works in Kraken

The biggest strength is craft. Norwegian filmmakers have earned a reputation for confident monster-building, from Trollhunter onward, and Kraken carries that tradition forward. One audience reviewer praised the way physical props sit alongside larger CGI pieces, and that blend does help the creature feel present.

The setting is a smart choice. Dark fjord water is naturally unsettling, and a working fish farm gives the story a believable reason for people to be near it. The film uses that space well.

At just 94 minutes, the pacing is brisk. There is little padding, so the tension rarely drops for long. If you like your action-drama blend compact, that matters.

A few other highlights:

• Practical effects that give the threat some weight

• A grounded, science-minded lead character

• A clear sense of place in the Norwegian landscape

Kraken Cast and Performances

The Kraken cast is led by Sara Khorami as Johanne, who anchors the film with a practical, curious presence. She sells the scientist's mix of professional doubt and growing alarm. Mikkel Bratt Silset plays Erik, and Ingvild Holthe Bygdnes appears as Henriette.

The supporting players include Øyvind Brandtzæg as Avaldsnes, Jenny Evensen as Maria and Steinar Klouman Hallert as Cato. Audience feedback highlights solid casting and characters whose motives and relationships feel relatable. That gives the danger real stakes, because you care who is standing near the water.

Nobody is asked to stretch far, but the ensemble keeps the film grounded. That grounded tone is exactly what a creature story needs.

Where Kraken Stumbles

The film's biggest weakness is familiarity. A scientist who senses danger while others dismiss her is a well-worn setup, and the cautionary theme about nature will not surprise anyone who has seen similar films. Fans of the genre will recognise many beats.

At a brisk 94 minutes, some characters also get less room than they deserve. With a cast this size, a few relationships feel sketched rather than explored. The audience score of 6.2/10 on TMDB suggests viewers see it as enjoyable rather than outstanding.

The tone can also feel caught between a straightforward creature feature and a more serious drama. It does not always commit fully to either. For those who want a sharper thriller, our Thriller movie reviews offer plenty of alternatives.

Is Kraken Worth Watching?

Yes, Kraken is worth watching if you enjoy a compact, well-made monster story with a Nordic flavour. It does not reinvent the genre, but it handles its creature, its setting and its cast with care. That counts for a lot in a field full of lazy imitations.

The Kraken release date was 6 February 2026, and the film is in Norwegian with subtitles likely needed for English-speaking viewers. It is a modest, effective watch rather than a must-see event. Think of it as a solid pick for a dark evening.

If you like the action side of this mix, browse our Action movie reviews for more. For a different kind of 2026 tension, try our take on KILLHOUSE.

Who Will Enjoy Kraken

• Fans of Norwegian monster films such as Trollhunter and the Troll movies

• Viewers who like short, practical-effects-driven creature features

• Anyone who enjoys a cautionary tale about science and nature colliding