By Peter de Kuster

Introduction: When History Calls, Will You Answer?

Nr 24 is not just a war drama—it’s a testament to the power of ordinary people to shape history. The film chronicles the true story of Gunnar Sønsteby, a quiet accountant from Rjukan, Norway, who becomes the legendary resistance leader “Number 24” during the Nazi occupation. Through his journey, we see how courage, ingenuity, and resilience can change the course of a nation. For creative leaders, Sønsteby’s story is a call to reflect: you are the storyteller of your own life. Will you step up and create your legend, or let others write it for you?

Plot Summary: From Accountant to Resistance Legend

Gunnar Sønsteby’s world is shattered when Nazi Germany invades Norway in 1940. Initially a young apprentice with no military background, Sønsteby is horrified by the occupation and the burning of books. Driven by conscience, he joins the Norwegian Resistance, quickly proving himself as a meticulous planner and master of disguise. Under the codename “Number 24,” he leads daring sabotage missions—printing counterfeit money, destroying Nazi archives, and orchestrating attacks on German infrastructure. Sønsteby’s ability to adapt, evade capture, and inspire others makes him a legendary figure. Yet, his journey is fraught with loss, betrayal, and the heavy burden of leadership. The film’s emotional core is Sønsteby’s struggle with the moral costs of resistance, culminating in his postwar reflections and search for redemption.

The Hero’s Journey and 12 Archetypes in Nr 24

Let’s walk through Sønsteby’s journey—and reflect on your own leadership at each stage.

1. Ordinary World (The Everyman)

Sønsteby is a quiet, diligent accountant in Rjukan, living a simple life.
Reflection: Where in your life do you underestimate your own potential, assuming your story is ordinary?

2. Call to Adventure (The Herald)

The Nazi invasion upends Sønsteby’s world, forcing him to choose a side.
Reflection: What external event is calling you to step up as a creative leader?

3. Refusal of the Call (The Orphan)

Sønsteby hesitates, feeling unprepared for resistance.
Reflection: When have you doubted your ability to lead or make a difference?

4. Meeting the Mentor (The Sage)

Guided by resistance veterans and British SOE, Sønsteby finds his path.
Reflection: Who are your mentors, and how do you seek guidance in times of uncertainty?

5. Crossing the Threshold (The Rebel)

He commits fully, adopting false identities and risking everything for the cause.
Reflection: When have you taken a bold step, leaving safety behind for a greater mission?

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies (The Warrior, The Trickster, The Lover)

Sønsteby forms the Oslo Gang, faces betrayal, and navigates shifting loyalties.
Reflection: Who are your true allies? How do you respond to betrayal or shifting trust?

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave (The Creator)

He masterminds high-risk sabotage missions, knowing each could be his last.
Reflection: What creative risks are you taking in your own leadership journey?

8. Ordeal (The Hero)

The Gestapo closes in; friends are lost, and Sønsteby must make impossible choices.
Reflection: How do you handle crisis and the heavy weight of responsibility?

9. Reward (The Ruler)

His operations succeed, but at a high personal and moral cost.
Reflection: What have you gained—and what have you sacrificed—on your path?

10. The Road Back (The Caregiver)

Sønsteby tries to protect his team and the innocent, but reprisals are brutal.
Reflection: How do you care for your team and community after hard decisions?

11. Resurrection (The Magician)

Surviving the war, Sønsteby reflects on loss, legacy, and the price of freedom.
Reflection: How have your greatest challenges transformed you as a leader?

12. Return with the Elixir (The Sage)

As an elder, Sønsteby shares his story with a new generation, passing on hard-won wisdom.
Reflection: What lessons will you share to inspire others and shape the future?

Conclusion: Your Legend Awaits

Nr 24 is a portrait of courage, sacrifice, and the moral ambiguity of leadership in crisis. Sønsteby’s journey reminds us: the story you live is the story you leave behind. Will you be the reluctant hero who rises to the occasion, or let others dictate your legacy? The choice—and the legend—is yours.

Questions to Take Away

• Where are you in your own hero’s journey?
• Which archetype do you naturally embody—and which do you need to develop?
• What risks are you willing to take for your values?
• How do you handle betrayal, loss, and moral ambiguity?
• What story do you want to tell about your leadership and legacy?

Story Coaching with Peter de Kuster

Are you ready to become the hero of your own story? My story coaching is designed for creative leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who want to transform their narrative and unlock their full potential.

Who is this for?

• Creative professionals and leaders seeking clarity and inspiration
• Anyone ready to move beyond old stories and create a new legend for themselves

Benefits:

• Clarity on your purpose and mission
• Tools to rewrite limiting stories and unlock new possibilities
• A personalized Hero’s Journey map for your life and business
• Greater confidence, creativity, and impact

Price:
One hour online coaching session: €295 (excluding VAT)

Ready to take the next step?
Contact me at peter@wearesomeone.nl

Because your story is your life. And you are the storyteller.