Watch The Saboteurs

The Saboteurs is a Norwegian television miniseries that premiered on NRK1 in 2015. The show is set during World War II and tells the story of the Norwegian resistance movement's efforts to disrupt the Nazi regime's efforts to develop atomic weapons. The show is a historical drama that is based on real events and real people, but it takes some liberties with the facts in order to enhance the dramatic tension of the story.

The core of the show's narrative revolves around two key characters. The first is Leif Tronstad, a Norwegian scientist who is working for the British government. Tronstad is tasked with leading an effort to sabotage a Nazi operation to develop a nuclear weapon. He is a man deeply committed to his cause who understands the high stakes involved in his mission. Tronstad is portrayed as an intense, driven man who is willing to make hard choices in order to achieve his goals.

The second key character is Kurt Stage, a Norwegian intelligence officer who is sent on a mission to sabotage the Nazi's nuclear program. Stage's mission is to gain access to the Norwegian heavy water plant at Vemork. This is a key facility that is necessary for the production of nuclear weapons. Stage is depicted as a man who is highly skilled in his work but is also haunted by a traumatic event from his past. His experience in the show is one of growth and redemption as he navigates his difficult mission.

The show's visual elements are impressive, with excellent set design and cinematography. The opening credits sequence, in particular, is a highlight of the show, featuring breathtaking footage of the Norwegian landscape and a haunting, atmospheric soundtrack.

The Saboteurs has been praised for its detailed and authentic portrayal of life in Norway during the war. The show does an excellent job of conveying the fear and uncertainty that people felt during this time. The Norwegian resistance movement is shown to be a complex and nuanced effort that involved people from all walks of life.

In addition to the main plotline involving Tronstad and Stage, the show also explores the lives of other resistance fighters and civilians. These characters provide a broader context for the story and deepen the emotional impact of the show.

The show is not without its flaws, however. Some critics have noted that the series can be slow paced at times, with long stretches of dialogue that can be difficult to follow. Additionally, the show's treatment of some of its female characters has been criticized as superficial and simplistic.

Despite these criticisms, The Saboteurs is a well-crafted and engrossing drama that is worth watching for its riveting story and excellent performances. The show's combination of historical accuracy and dramatic tension make it a standout in the genre of historical drama. It is a testament to the courage and resilience of the Norwegian people during a dark period in their history.