Movement Choreography for The Northman (2020/2021)

Movement Choreography: Marie-Gabrielle Rotie

Director Robert Eggers
Cinematography: Jarin Blaschke

Rotie worked on the movement for the berserkers, for Alexander Skarsgard, for Anya Taylor Joy in a circle dance in the woods, and with Willem Dafoe as the court fool with the mummers. The choreography for the Berserkers drew upon research into Viking history and images, and for the circle pagan dance, traces such as found in Morris and mummer dancers. As there is no actual record remaining of any viking or berserker dance, Rotie created material for Robert Eggers through a meticulous research-led process. She drew upon her previous choreographic and movement experience of exploring animal transformation, led several research workshops with dancers and actors. She then crafted the final movement that issued from Butoh, and drew upon viking imagery, martial type movement and human and animal transformation to evoke the rage, strength and bestiality of the Berserkers.

For industry interview and reviews please see the following links:

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/technical-advisors-the-menu-top-gun-maverick/how-to-rampage-like-a-viking/

https://screenrant.com/northman-call-to-the-gods-book-choreography-exclusive/

https://theface.com/culture/robert-eggers-interview-the-northman-viking-epic-anya-tayolr-joy-nicole-kidman-willem-dafoe-alexander-skarsgard-harry-styles-nosferatu

https://www.focusfeatures.com/the-northman/image/unit-9

https://www.fanbyte.com/entertainment/tv-film/the-northman-review-go-north-young-man/