Is Med rett til å drepe Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1971)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1971, Med rett til å drepe represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Science Fiction category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Norwegian Sci-Fi short based on William Tenn's short story "Time in Advance". As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Science Fiction are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Norwegian Sci-Fi short based on William Tenn's short story "Time in Advance". In the far future a law is passed enabling citizens to serve out sentences for crimes they intend to commit, serving the full term, but with a 50% pre-criminal discount. Post-criminals and pre-criminals alike are sent to carry out hard-labour on hellishly perilous, far-flung Convict Planets. Few return. Those pre-criminals who are not killed, drop out before their terms are up, with nothing but scars and nightmares to show for their troubles. Two pre-criminals however manage against all the odds to serve out two full terms for murder, and return to Earth as minor celebrities, with the right to kill one person each."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Rolf Søder, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Science Fiction. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by the visionary director is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 35 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Med rett til å drepe truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Science Fiction, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 7.2/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Med rett til å drepe explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1971 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and the visionary director respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Med rett til å drepe serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Rolf Søder or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Med rett til å drepe is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.