King of Devil's Island

Erling, also known as 'C19', arrives at the harsh environment of Bastøy prison island, which houses young offenders. He quickly becomes acquainted with Olav, referred to as 'C1', establishing a friendship that will be tested by the oppressive conditions around them.

Under the stern authority of warden Håkon, Erling and Olav endure brutal treatment from the prison staff, particularly from the despised unit manager Bråthen. The extreme winter conditions further heighten their daily struggles, making life on the island increasingly challenging.

Olav observes the predatory actions of Bråthen towards Ivar, known as 'C5', while they work in the laundry room. The abuse of vulnerable inmates becomes evident, leading Olav to contemplate a course of action.

Braving the potential repercussions, Olav reports Bråthen's misconduct to the warden. This act of bravery resulted in both Olav and Erling facing harsh punishment, while C5 is thankfully moved away from Bråthen's reach.

Unable to cope with the harassment and the traumatic environment, Ivar tragically takes his own life by drowning in the icy waters surrounding the prison. This shocking incident profoundly affects the boys, leaving a dark shadow hanging over them.

Following the tragedy of Ivar's death, Bråthen is finally dismissed from his position. This turn of events sparks a renewed sense of hope among the boys, who had been living in fear under his management.

As Olav prepares for parole, he unexpectedly encounters Bråthen, who has been temporarily removed from the island. In a moment of rage and protectiveness for their friend, Olav and Erling confront Bråthen, igniting a violent clash.

As a consequence of their confrontation with Bråthen, Olav and Erling are placed in solitary confinement amidst extreme cold. The punishment serves as a stark reminder of the reality of life within the brutal confines of the prison.

Fortunately for Olav and Erling, they are rescued by Bjarne, one of the few boys remaining who acts as a caretaker on the island. His timely intervention provides them with a glimmer of hope amidst the dark reality they face.

Olav's desire for vengeance against Bråthen sparks a full-scale uprising among the boys. They band together to overthrow their captors, taking control of the island and expressing their long-held frustrations.

In the chaos of the rebellion, Bråthen faces a horrifying fate as he is subjected to violent retaliation by the boys. He is hanged in the barn, highlighting the deep-seated anger and desperation felt by the inmates.

Despite the fury surrounding Bråthen's punishment, Erling chooses an unexpected path by saving him from a fire that ensues in the barn. This act of compassion reveals the complex moral choices that arise even in dire situations.

In response to the uprising, a navy ship arrives to quell the rebellion's chaos. The intervention serves as a reminder of the overarching power and control exerted over the boys, despite their momentary rebellion.

Amidst the turmoil and confusion, Olav and Erling manage to flee from the clutches of the prison across the icy fjord toward the mainland. Their desperate escape signifies a small victory in their quest for freedom.

As they near shore, tragedy strikes when Erling falls through the fragile ice and succumbs to the freezing waters. This heartbreaking moment marks a devastating end to their friendship and journey, leaving Olav to cope with profound loss.

Years later, we find an older Olav as part of a ship's crew, gazing wistfully at the distant Bastøy island. The haunting memories of his youth and the trials he faced there linger in his mind, serving as a permanent reminder of his past experiences.