User reviews

Films with intrigues related to death and passion usually enable character actors/actresses to show their talent in full - even if the plot leaves to be desired. This is also the case here, with Stockholm Östra, where Mikael Persbrandt and Iben Hjejle, above all, give convincing and profound performances. The script, however, has questionable moments, even when considering the events happening in modern world with Internet and yellow press included; behaviours of characters are logical, but expected, paving the way for trivial ending. General mood is oppressive and hectic, thus the film is not for everyone, but those fond of Persbrandt and Hjejle do not feel disappointed, although their roles here are not among the best ones.

Swedish cinema has largely dipped over the previous 20 years due to the expansion of several internationally successful TV series, stars and directors heading for Hollywood, along with a certain identity crisis following the passing of Ingmar Bergman.

This short, slightly Bergmanesque movie from 2011 has recently been pushed on Netflix so I gave it a watch. Despite no recognisable stars, limited location shooting and a slow, darkish feel the film does work on a basic level. It's the storyline that was always going to cause problems for the viewing public. Some may find it somewhat taboo, weird or even disturbing and disgusting, others, boring or unrealistic. Whatever your views, on one level this is a tragic love story which I personally believe is not entirely unrealistic; on another, it does pose some questions about morality, a certain emotional emptiness and sparseness of direction.

It cannot be classed as an Arthouse film, although it sometimes would like to swing in that direction. The two main characters, Anna and Johann are two ordinary people plunged into a nightmare situation that they both try to deal with in their own, individual way. They are both vulnerable, depressed and with other partners. This is a slow burning relationship that develops organically - but obviously heading for disaster from the start.

The movie is slow, dark and depressive at times, despite some almost forced happy scenes between the couple. This overall black mood is in line with the script, however, some of the acting is fairly amateurish at times. Worth a watch for the individualistic script.

Very unrealistic and inhuman , very bad ending... No any mother can do this until she is a b**ch

I enjoyed both the acting, which was under-played and empathetic from the leads and the direction which was in no hurry but, nevertheless, was far from languid. It was an interesting tale that explored the human condition and its many contradictions, especially where love and loss are involved.

Very interesting storyline which makes this an intriguing and sensitive film. Strong cast with excellent performances by all four of the main characters with direction and script to match. I found the whole production very moving.

Glad I saw it and will watch again.