12th Man, The

"The 12th Man" takes place in 1943 Norway. After a failed anti-Nazi sabotage mission leaves his eleven comrades dead, Norwegian resistance fighter Jan Baalsrud (Gullestad) finds himself on the run from the Gestapo through the snowbound Arctic reaches of Scandinavia. It's a harrowing journey across unforgiving frozen wilderness––one that will stretch on for months and force Jan to take extreme action in order to survive. (Gary Reber)

Special features include the trailer and upfront previews.

The 2.39:1 1080p AVC picture, reviewed on a Sony Bravia Z9D 4K Ultra HD HDR display, upconverted to 2160p with greater resolution and luminance, was photographed on film in 16mm/35mm/65mm formats and sourced from a 2K master Digital Intermediate format. The picture is wonderfully filmic with a light film grain that nicely adds weight to the photography. The color palette exhibits perfectly natural hues that convey richness and warmth. The settings are often spectacular with frozen seas, ice and snow, snow-covered mountains and Northern Lights. Night scenes convey a cold and icy bleakness. The lighting design and cinematography stylization enhances the often-incredible imagery. Fleshtones are naturally hued. Contrast is well balanced with bright highlights and deep blacks, with revealing shadow delineation. Resolution is good, though, pleasingly soft in some segments. Closeups are revealing in fine details of facial features, hair, clothing and Nazi uniforms, and object textures that are realistic. This is a beautifully photographed cinematic experience. (Gary Reber)

The DTS-HD Master Audio™ 5.1 soundtrack is available both in the original Norwegian language and in an English dubbed version. The dubbed English version is good in terms of believability and spatial integration. Fidelity is excellent. Foley sound effects are nicely executed and enhance the sense of realism. Sound effects, such as gunfire, vehicle sounds and an airplane in flight all sound quite real. Surround extension is often subtle but at times sound effects energize the surrounds. Deep bass occurs in various scenes to provide added impact. The orchestral score is dynamic, beautiful and sweeping in occupying a wide and deep soundstage that extends to the surrounds. This is a terrific soundtrack that is very well crafted and creative. (Gary Reber)