The Heroes of Telemark

The Heroes of Telemark

Year: 1965

Runtime: 131 mins

Language: English

Director: Anthony Mann

DramaActionWarWar and historical adventureBravery in War

Outnumbered and unarmed, a small Norwegian resistance team astonishes the world by sabotaging the Nazi heavy‑water plant in Telemark. Resistance fighter Knut Straud persuades reluctant physicist Rolf Pedersen to join the daring mission, risking everything to cripple the German nuclear programme in occupied Norway.

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Timeline & Setting – The Heroes of Telemark (1965)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Heroes of Telemark (1965). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

World War II (1939–1945)

The events unfold during World War II, with Norway under German occupation. Resistance groups collaborate with the British to disrupt Nazi efforts and infrastructure. The time period emphasizes clandestine planning, raids, and high-stakes missions that hinge on wartime urgency.

Location

Rjukan, Telemark, Norway

Rjukan is a town in Telemark, Norway, home to the Vemork Norsk Hydro heavy water plant that the Nazis use to produce heavy water. The setting centers on the industrial complex and its surrounding valley, where resistance fighters operate under danger and secrecy. The stark landscape and the plant’s presence provide the backdrop for daring sabotage missions during WWII.

🏔 Mountain town 🏭 Industrial site 🛡 Resistance backdrop

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 18:15

Main Characters – The Heroes of Telemark (1965)

Meet the key characters of The Heroes of Telemark (1965), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Dr. Rolf Pedersen (Kirk Douglas)

A Norwegian physics professor who initially resists involvement in the resistance but is drawn into the struggle. His scientific mind becomes pivotal in planning sabotage, and his personal life rekindles with his ex-wife Anna amidst the danger. He leads risky operations and endures moral and physical peril for the mission.

🔬 Scientist 🧭 Leader 💔 Relationship

Knut Straud (Richard Harris)

A Norwegian resistance leader based on Knut Haukelid who recruits and guides Rolf in the sabotage effort. He is instrumental in planning the raid on the heavy water plant and coordinating with allies. His courage and strategic thinking anchor the resistance team.

⚔️ Warrior 🧭 Strategist

Anna Pedersen (Ulla Jacobsson)

Rolf's ex-wife who becomes involved in the resistance and helps sustain the mission. Her involvement tests personal loyalties and strengthens the resolve of the group. She contributes to planning and rescue efforts during the raid and subsequent dangers.

💞 Family 🧭 Ally

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 18:15

Major Themes – The Heroes of Telemark (1965)

Explore the central themes of The Heroes of Telemark (1965), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🛡️ Resistance

Resistance networks form to challenge Nazi control over Norwegian industry. The story explores the moral ambiguities of sabotage, loyalty, and the costs of war. Allies and locals must balance tactical success with the human toll of their choices. The safety of civilians and the fate of the mission hang in the balance.

🧭 Courage

Individuals confront constant peril and choose action over safety. The characters navigate fear, loyalty, and duty, risking their lives for a larger cause. Trust and quick thinking become essential as plans unfold. The narrative highlights resilience in the face of tyranny.

🔬 Science

Rolf Pedersen's scientific expertise becomes a weapon in the struggle. The film juxtaposes academic pursuit with clandestine warfare and strategic calculations. Plans and microfilmed data drive critical decisions and risky operations. Knowledge itself is framed as a tool that can alter the course of war.

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 18:15

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Unlock the Full Story of The Heroes of Telemark

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The Heroes of Telemark Summary

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The Heroes of Telemark Summary

The Heroes of Telemark Timeline

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The Heroes of Telemark Timeline

More About The Heroes of Telemark

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More About The Heroes of Telemark