Is the Number 24 movie based on a true story? Explained

The Norwegian war drama Number 24 was released on January 1, 2025, on Netflix. It has made a lot of buzz due to its intense story and the presentation of ethical issues during wartime. Directed by John Andreas Andersen, the film is based on the real-life of Gunnar Sønsteby, one of the Norwegian resistance heroes who played an important role during World War II in fighting Nazi occupation.

The question of whether the film is based on a true story has intrigued viewers, and the answer lies in its roots as a biographical recounting of historical events.

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The Historical Basis of Number 24

Still from the movie Number 24 (Image via Netflix)

Number 24 is deeply grounded in historical fact, telling the story of the life and achievements of Gunnar Sønsteby, one of Norway's most important figures in the Nazi resistance movement. Sønsteby was codenamed "Agent 24" and he operated with the Oslo Gang—a highly skilled team of operatives who furthered the greater Allied war effort.

This is a film taken straight from historical records and Sønsteby's documented experiences of personal sacrifice and ethical dilemmas he encountered in leading the dangerous missions against the foreign invaders and local collaborators.

Sønsteby's resistance journey started with small-scale operations, like running underground presses that were used to distribute anti-Nazi propaganda. His sharp intellect and unwavering dedication soon led him to be taken into the British Special Operations Executive, where he received specialized training in espionage and sabotage.

As Agent 24, Sønsteby managed crucial missions, such as burning Oslo's city archive to prevent forced conscription and sabotaging the Kongsberg weapons factory. These activities frustrated the Nazi moves and greatly strengthened Norway's resistance movement.

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The Ethical Complexities Explored

Still from the movie Number 24 (Image via Netflix)

Perhaps one of the most poignant themes that arises in Number 24 is how wartime decisions make a plaything of morality. The Oslo Gang, under the command of Sønsteby, repeatedly targeted Norwegian collaborators who worked on behalf of the Nazis. Difficult decisions therefore included condoning the execution of turncoats who had turned against fellow resistance fighters.

A poignant moment in the film is the authorization by Sønsteby to execute his close friend Erling Solheim, who was collaborating with the Nazis and would have revealed all the resistance activities. This betrayal and its sad aftermath illustrate the thin the line is between heroism and personal sacrifice.

While the movie largely follows historical facts, the tale also incorporates artistic nuances to make it more emotive. The film's double timeline shows Sønsteby's work during the war years while depicting his old age and reflection of the same: a pantheon view of his legacy and the long-lasting impact his choices bear.

Still from the movie Number 24 (Image via Netflix)

This movie is more than a war movie, it is a testimony to the strength, courage, and moral complexity of those who resisted oppression during one of history's darkest moments. Drawing from the life of Gunnar Sønsteby, the movie provides a gripping and thought-provoking account of the human cost of war.

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Number 24 is now streaming on Netflix.