King of Devil's Island

On a desolate Norwegian island during the winter of 1915, a youth detention facility houses boys aged roughly 11 to 18. The regime is brutal and unyielding, built on fear and punishment as much as reform. A new arrival named Erling quickly becomes fixated on escape, drawing the attention of fellow inmates who have endured the same harsh routines. A tragic incident exposes the system's cruelty and sparks a spark of defiance among the youngsters. What follows is a dangerous defiance that unsettles the guards and test the limits of authority. When the revolt gains momentum, 150 soldiers are dispatched to retake the island.

Directed by Marius Holst, the drama is developed by writers Mette M. Bølstad, Lars Saabye Christensen and Dennis Magnusson. It uses historical Bastøy life as a backdrop and premiered in Norway in 2010, gaining attention for its restrained storytelling.

Box office data for this title is not widely publicized, reflecting a measured release that appealed to a niche audience. Its financial footprint sits outside the blockbuster arena but earned recognition at home for its craft.

Culturally the film shines a light on a dark chapter of Norwegian history, sparking conversations about juvenile justice and reform. It contributed to greater awareness of Bastøy island and the real life rebellion that inspired the story, resonating with audiences seeking historical sensitivity.

Critics noted a stark portrayal of power dynamics between wardens and youths, and the film centers on resilience and collective action rather than sensationalism. Strong performances from Stellan Skarsgård as the overseer and Benjamin Helstad as the determined Erling anchor the drama.