Valkyrien

Valkyrien from WALTER PRESENTS in 2017 offers an intriguing blend of medical, political and personal drama fueled by an undercurrent of science fiction. Set in the heart of Oslo, the otherwise quiet but vibrant city presents an interesting dichotomy between its gleaming public hospitals and an underground, illegal clinic that operates beneath the city streets in an abandoned metro station known as Valkyrien.

The series revolves around the character of Ravn, a determined and highly skilled surgeon disappointed by the limitations and bureaucracy of the conventional medical system. After his wife falls gravely ill with a disease not recognized by official medicine, he makes radical choices that ultimately lead him to operate an underground clinic in the vacated Valkyrien station, treating patients who either cannot seek help through above-ground clinics or wish to remain off the grid for various reasons. The desperation and ambition these circumstances breed create not only conflict but pave the way for unusual relationships.

Valkyrien is more than just a medical drama, though, as it also delves into the lives of its diverse and richly developed characters outside of the clinic. Included in the cast is Leif, a doomsday prepper expecting the worst potential outcomes for society. His character adds an element of political and societal critique to the storyline with his front-row commentary on a variety of contemporary issues.

Valkyrien's secret medical practice becomes a magnet for Oslo's underworld, opening the floodgates for a myriad of stories rooted in the political, social and moral grey zones many find themselves in today. It creates room for a character like Teo, a former patient who becomes more involved with the underground clinic's operations, increasing the complexity of the narrative and adding an additional layer of suspense and intrigue.

Valkyrien stands apart with its engrossing plot that balances medical drama with elements of social critique, political tension and personal emotion. Its unconventional portrayal of medical and social practices, shrouded in secrecy, navigates a whole spectrum of moral and ethical dilemmas, adding a touch of philosophical debate that elevates the series beyond a simple thriller.

One cannot talk about Valkyrien without mentioning its remarkable production values and visually striking cinematography, which alternate between the sterility of public hospitals, the atmospherically charged abandoned Valkyrien station, and the bustling city streets of Oslo. The environment further underscores the duality and contradictions of the world in which the characters live, highlighting the divide between the real world and the underground one.

The performances in Valkyrien are particularly noteworthy. Sven Nordin delivers a compelling performance as Ravn, the compassionate surgeon determined to save his wife at all costs, instilling the character with enough humanity to make his seemingly unthinkable actions relatable. Pål Sverre Hagen’s portrayal of the skeptical and paranoid Leif is intensely believable, adding a palpable sense of tension to the plot.

The writing in Valkyrien is woven tightly, combining medical terminology seamlessly with everyday speech. The storylines are incorporated with precision-breathing life into the characters and their personal narratives. With meticulous attention to detail, the writers demonstrate a deep understanding of the human persona, the desperation that can drive people to extreme lengths, and the moral spaces in which they find themselves.

While Valkyrien deals with dark themes, it strikes a balance by also exploring the humanity of its characters in small, meaningful ways. It forces viewers to question the lengths to which they might go, given certain circumstances. The series stands out for its ability to merge drama, suspense, and deeper societal commentaries into a gripping whole that keeps viewers hooked till the end of each episode.

This Norwegian series is not just a riveting drama but also a profound exploration of the human experience, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in richly layered narratives driven by relatable, complex characters. To sum it up, the 2017 series Valkyrien is a compelling exploration of morality, medicine, and the human drive for survival in the face of desperation, skillfully blending elements of medical drama with societal critique and personal emotion. It is a show that will linger with viewers long after they have finished watching it.