Why Does The Valkyrie Have Braces In The Northman

Okay, picture this: you're chilling at a historical reenactment fair, right? Someone walks by dressed head-to-toe in Viking gear – looks legit, the whole shebang. But then you notice…glinting in the sun... are those…braces?! You'd probably do a double-take, wouldn't you? I know I would!

That’s kinda how a lot of people felt watching Robert Eggers' The Northman. A brutal, visceral Viking epic... with a Valkyrie sporting a rather unexpected accessory: braces.

Wait, What? Braces in a Viking Movie?

Yeah, you heard right. Not exactly chainmail or battle axes, is it? The Valkyrie, played by Icelandic singer Björk, appears during Amleth's (Alexander Skarsgård) hallucinatory vision, guiding fallen warriors to Valhalla. And yes, those are definitely braces on her teeth.

Now, before you start sharpening your pitchforks and yelling about historical inaccuracies, let's delve into why Eggers made this seemingly bizarre choice. (Spoiler alert: it's not because the Vikings had some secret orthodontist training!)

The Real Reason Behind the Valkyrie's Smile (or Lack Thereof)

The answer isn’t quite as straightforward as “Eggers wanted to be quirky.” It's much more about symbolism, artistic vision, and the specific way Eggers approaches historical representation.

First, it's important to understand that Eggers isn't aiming for 100% documentary-level accuracy. He’s creating a world that feels authentically Viking, even if it takes liberties with certain details. Think of it as historical impressionism, not photography.

Second, Björk herself played a huge role in shaping the character. Eggers specifically wanted her for the role, and she brought her own unique perspective to the Valkyrie's look. It's no secret Björk is a visionary artist, so she and Eggers must have had a conversation about the artistic license.

Third, and perhaps most importantly, the braces serve a symbolic purpose. They represent the Valkyrie as something otherworldly and unreachable. They're a subtle reminder that this isn’t just some normal woman; she's a divine figure, a conduit to the afterlife. It's about unsettling expectations and creating a sense of the uncanny. Kind of makes you think, huh?

But...Why Braces Specifically?

Good question! Why not, like, a really elaborate headdress or some glowing eyes? Well, braces are intrinsically modern. They immediately disrupt the historical setting, forcing you to consider the Valkyrie as something beyond the limitations of the Viking age.

They're also a sign of human imperfection. Even this celestial being has something “wrong” with her, at least according to modern beauty standards. This juxtaposition is jarring and thought-provoking. It suggests that even in Valhalla, the idealized warrior paradise, there are echoes of earthly concerns.

And let's be honest, they’re just plain weird. And weirdness, in Eggers' films, is often a key ingredient in creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. He wants to jar you out of complacency and make you question what you're seeing. (Did he succeed, you ask? Well, here we are discussing it!)

Ultimately, It's About Interpretation

Ultimately, the meaning of the Valkyrie's braces is up for interpretation. There's no single "correct" answer. What matters is how you perceive them within the context of the film.

Do they bother you because they break the historical illusion? Do you find them unsettling and effective in creating a sense of otherworldliness? Or do you just think they're kinda funny? All of those reactions are valid! That's the beauty of art, right?

So, next time you're watching The Northman, pay close attention to that Valkyrie's smile. It might just make you think a little differently about Vikings, history, and the power of a well-placed anachronism. And maybe, just maybe, it will make you want to call your orthodontist! (Just kidding...mostly.)