Nicolas Winding Refn certainly can make a cinematic statement. His widely acclaimed Pusher Trilogy put him on the map, but it is his recent work with Bronson and his latest, Valhalla Rising that have sent Hollywood knocking.

Gritty, dark and poetic, his films are more than just action, they are loaded with character and sometimes feel like a grim yet loving tribute to cinema. Rich with color and stylized with care, he is able to give character to wherever his actors seem to be.