Gösta

One of my random picks at the BFI London Film Festival, didn't really know anything about it going in, and was surprised to find it was actually a HBO Europe TV series, rather than a film.

The performance we saw featured 4 episodes out of 12, with notes to explain the characters we discovered that had originated in episodes we'd not seen.

A Swedish comedy-drama, about a TOO nice guy who can't say no to anyone in need, while also working as a child psychologist, it follows his life in a small town he's moved to for work, and the individuals who pass through.

The show seemed to be a reflection of director Lukas Moodysson who appeared for a Q&A afterwards, and captured underlying dark themes, but with brilliant sharp witty humour which seemed to help as a coping mechanism for this own personal demons.

Littered with joyful moments, cringe-worthy scenes, and heartfelt compassion, it looks like it'll be a great little show which I'll certainly look out for on Streaming services.

Captures what you would think to come out of a Swedish movie/series. The plot is somewhat predictable but very well played out. Brilliant acting from the main characters!

Moodysson have a way of capturing simple life and ordinarities and making it interesting and on point. The series will make you laugh at all the small things that defines our present time. It highlights some of the western world mental health problems in a really enjoyable and also tragic way. Every interaction and relationship in the series is colored by it and thats what makes it so recognizable and genius. The acting itself is really classy and convincing in all simplicity, nothing else fancy needed. I'm convinced the series will give you some new perspectives, some new hope, AND some new smiles!

Series that made me laugh, feel empathy, see the reality of life as uncomfortable as it can be at times, contemplate why we do the things we do and the human condition. The lead Vilhelm is adorable and so lovely, he makes the show so enjoyable and will fall in love with his character.

True art piece that describes the ambivalence of kindness. Really funny but also pitch black some times. Legendary Lukas Moodysson at his very best. probably a tomorrow classic.