Daisy Dewsnap: Harrowing retelling of terror attack

Our regular columnist, secondary school student Daisy Dewsnap, reviews the dramatisation of one of Norway's darkest days...

Every now and then, a film will pop onto our screens which will immediately grab the attention of all of its viewers. 

22 July, which was released in 2018, is one of these films. It is harrowing, gripping and heart-wrenching.

22 July tells the captivating story of a terrorist attack on a youth camp; it is a story of grief, bravery, devastation, strength, courage and determination. 

It’s also based on the 2011 Norway attacks and their aftermath, which makes it even more heartbreaking as the events that the story is centred around are based on a massively destructive event which impacted so many people. 

From disturbing clips of the terrorist making the bomb and preparing for the massacre to heart-warming takes of ecstatic teenagers arriving at the camp and being reunited with their friends, there are many parts throughout the film that are designed to make you cling to the edge of your seat with terror and trepidation.

Personally, I loved the film and felt that it was very powerful, acting as an intense yet realistic retelling and deeper insight into the horrific event. 

The film was also very fast-paced to ensure that the audience’s attention was fully on the action throughout and to keep them gripped. I enjoyed how, rather than just focusing on the attack itself, the film also focused on the impact it had on the victims and families of those involved/directly affected.

Overall, I felt that this film was a very powerful portrayal of this horrendous disaster that took place in Oslo. The film is definitely a must see for everyone and shed lots of light on an event which I didn’t initially know much about.