Kraken (2026) Review: A Slow-Burning Fjord Monster Story

This Kraken review starts with a simple question: can a Norwegian fjord make a monster movie feel fresh? Pål Øie's action drama has the scenery and a few strong scares, though it leans on familiar genre habits. Here is what works, what doesn't and whether it deserves your evening.

Kraken Review: The Story So Far (No Spoilers)

The Kraken plot begins with a video of hundreds of salmon throwing themselves onto the shore at a fish farm in the Sognefjord. Johanne, played by Sara Khorami, is sent to investigate. Sources differ on her job: some call her a marine biologist, others a food safety inspector.

The farm uses a parasite-removal system called Sonic Lice. Johanne invented it with her former lover Erik, so the case is personal as well as professional. As the strange events pile up, the story ties them to a legendary sea monster.

That setup is classic creature-feature territory. A small community, a corporate interest and a scientist nobody wants to hear are all familiar pieces, and the film arranges them with care.

What Works in Kraken

The biggest asset is the setting. Reviewers at Bloody Disgusting and Keith and the Movies praised the imagery of natural beauty, and the drone shots over the fjord make the water look both gorgeous and threatening.

A strong opening

The early monster attack is the highlight. RogerEbert.com called the film a diligent homage to Spielberg, and that shows in how the opening builds dread before it shows much. It promises a sharper film than the one that follows.

A grounded hook

Tying the creature to fish farming gives the story a real-world edge. The idea that human tinkering with nature might wake something older is not new, but it suits a film from a country so tied to the sea.

Kraken Cast and Performances

The Kraken cast is led by Sara Khorami as Johanne, and several critics singled her out for praise. She gives the character a stubborn, tired credibility that keeps the investigation watchable even when the script gets routine.

Mikkel Bratt Silset plays Erik, her former partner and co-inventor, which adds emotional tension to the science. The supporting cast includes:

• Ingvild Holthe Bygdnes as Henriette

• Øyvind Brandtzæg as Avaldsnes

• Jenny Evensen as Maria

• Steinar Klouman Hallert as Cato

The ensemble is solid, though the writing gives most of them limited room to stand out.

Where Kraken Stumbles

The main complaint is pacing. Bloody Disgusting (2.5/5) found the pace slow and the editing confusing, while RogerEbert.com (2/4) said the film settles into a formulaic groove after its strong start. Rotten Tomatoes critics echoed this, noting that the slow buildup and familiar storytelling dilute the best moments.

Comparisons with Jaws are unavoidable, and several reviewers felt the film comes off worse. The Guardian called it a so-so creature feature, and Moviejawn found it lackluster. If you want a fresh take on the genre, expect to be underwhelmed.

It also helps to know that its genre mix is action and drama. The drama is more restrained than the monster hunting, so thrill-seekers may wait a while between set pieces.

Is Kraken Worth Watching?

Kraken is worth watching if you enjoy creature features and atmospheric scenery, but temper your expectations. It holds a 67% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes from 36 reviews, while IMDb users currently give it 5.4/10. That split fits what I saw: a well-made film that rarely surprises.

The Kraken release date was May 1, 2026 in Sweden and other territories, with a US theatrical release on June 12, 2026. Director Pål Øie delivers handsome images and a confident first attack. The middle stretch is where patience is needed.

If monster stories are your thing, compare it with Beware Boiuna, another folklore creature tale, or Hope for a bolder monster hunt. More details are on its IMDb page.

Who Will Enjoy Kraken

• Fans of slow-building creature features who value atmosphere over constant action.

• Viewers drawn to Nordic landscapes and nature photography.

• Anyone who likes Spielberg-style homages and does not mind familiar beats.