Rechtsextreme in der Wikingerszene

Helmets, swords and historical battles. Once a year, Viking fans gather in Wolin, Poland, for the largest Viking festival in the world. Hundreds of warriors re-enact the life of the Northmen here. For Dennis, the Viking life is not just a hobby, but a way of life. At the weekend he and his wife go to a self-built Viking village near Alfeld. They live here with like-minded people almost as they did a thousand years ago. The festival in Wolin is a highlight of the year for them. But right-wing extremists are increasingly mingling with participants and visitors to the costume spectacle. Swastikas and other right-wing symbols are being openly displayed more and more frequently. Runes and armor have attracted right-wing extremists since the Nazi era. One example is the Viking Museum Village in Oerlinghausen, which was built by the Nazi regime. Museum director Karl Banghard has been observing the infiltration of the Viking scene by right-wing extremists for years.

Directed by Alexander Wiese, Rechtsextreme in der Wikingerszene leans on a strong ensemble — Dennis Schäfer, Mike Potter, Sonja Potter — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2024.