Audiences are calling the Norwegian biographical war drama Number 24 (also known as Nr 24) one of the best war movies ever, with many declaring it rivals Hollywood classics like Saving Private Ryan and All Quiet on the Western Front. Streaming on Netflix, the film has a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has captivated viewers worldwide.
True Story of Gunnar Sønsteby
Directed by John Andreas Andersen, Number 24 is based on the true story of Gunnar Sønsteby, Norway’s most highly decorated citizen and the only person awarded the War Cross with three swords—Norway’s highest military honour. The title refers to his code name 'Agent No 24' or 'Kjakan' (The Chin) during the Norwegian resistance movement in World War II.
The film follows young apprentice Gunnar Sønsteby from Rjukan, who decides to resist Nazi Germany on the day of the invasion. He later becomes the leader of the 'Oslo-gang,' carrying out countless daring acts of sabotage that make him Norway’s greatest war hero.
Cast and Critical Acclaim
Sjur Vatne Brean and Erik Hivju portray Gunnar Sønsteby at different ages—Brean as the young resistance fighter and Hivju as the older veteran. The supporting cast includes Philip Helgar, Magnus Dugdale, Jakob Maanum Trulsen, Jacob Jensen, Flo Fagerli, and Ines Høysæter Asserson.
Premiering in Norway in October 2024, Number 24 became the most-streamed movie in Norway during its initial weeks after release on Netflix in 2025. Critics have praised the film: one called it a 'gripping, often violent thriller that highlights the best and worst of humankind,' while another noted it 'explores the moral grey areas during war under brutal invading forces.' A third critic simply described it as 'tense in the best way.'
Audience Reactions
Viewers have been equally enthusiastic. One fan on IMDb wrote: 'Fantastic movie. As an ex serviceman and history buff I found this to be one of the best films concerning WW2 I have ever seen. Without the gore and action of Saving Private Ryan, it is more cerebral on the effects and the sadness that war brings.'
Another viewer said: 'One of the best movies I have ever seen. Outstanding storytelling. Truly amazing until the very end. Unbelievably timely.' A third commented: 'This will go down as one of my all-time favourite war films, in a league with All Quiet on the Western Front. The structure of the storytelling is brilliant.'
One audience member shared: 'One of THE BEST movies about WW2 I've watched. A very touching story of a resistance fighter during WW2 that was both exciting, thrilling and left me very moved with the ending that I actually shed a tear.' Another simply called it 'an unexpected gem of a movie.'
Number 24 is available to stream on Netflix.
