Top Movie Picks on Amazon Prime in Sweden
The Brutalist
IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes
“The Brutalist” is a 2024 epic period drama directed by Brady Corbet. The film follows László Tóth (Adrien Brody), a Hungarian-Jewish Holocaust survivor who emigrates to the United States in 1947 with his wife, Erzsébet (Felicity Jones). Struggling to establish his architectural vision in post-war America, László’s fortunes change when he meets the enigmatic industrialist Harrison Lee Van Buren (Guy Pearce). Commissioned to design a monumental modernist structure, László grapples with artistic integrity, personal ambition, and the haunting shadows of his past. The film spans three decades, exploring themes of trauma, resilience, and the complexities of the American Dream. Praised for its ambitious narrative and Brody’s compelling performance, “The Brutalist” has received multiple awards and is a significant contender for the 2025 Academy Awards.
Challengers
IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, “Challengers” (2024) is a romantic sports drama that delves into the intertwined lives of three tennis professionals. Zendaya stars as Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy whose career is cut short by injury, leading her to transition into coaching. She is married to Art Donaldson (Mike Faist), a Grand Slam champion facing a decline in his career. In an effort to rejuvenate Art’s competitive spirit, Tashi enters him into a low-tier Challenger event, only to discover that his first opponent is Patrick Zweig (Josh O’Connor), Tashi’s ex-boyfriend and Art’s former best friend. The film intricately explores the complexities of love, rivalry, and ambition, set against the high-stakes world of professional tennis. Notably, the film’s original score, composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, enhances its dynamic and intense atmosphere.
Red, White & Royal Blue
IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes
“Red, White & Royal Blue” is a 2023 romantic comedy-drama based on Casey McQuiston’s best-selling novel. The story centers on Alex Claremont-Diaz, the charismatic son of the first female President of the United States, and his unexpected romance with Prince Henry, a British royal. After a public altercation between the two threatens international relations, they are forced to feign friendship, which soon blossoms into a secret and passionate love affair. The film explores themes of identity, duty, and the courage to live one’s truth, all while navigating the intense scrutiny of public life. Celebrated for its heartfelt performances and chemistry between the leads, the movie has garnered positive reviews and is available exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.
A Man Called Ove
IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes
“A Man Called Ove” is a 2015 Swedish comedy-drama film directed by Hannes Holm, adapted from Fredrik Backman’s novel. The story follows Ove (Rolf Lassgård), a cantankerous and solitary widower who enforces strict neighborhood rules and frequently contemplates joining his late wife. His rigid world is disrupted when a lively family moves in next door, leading to an unexpected friendship that gradually unveils Ove’s poignant past and transforms his outlook on life. The film delicately balances humor and heartache, offering a profound exploration of grief, love, and human connection. Acclaimed for its touching narrative and Lassgård’s compelling performance, the movie received an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film.
Let the Right One In
IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes
“Let the Right One In” is a 2008 Swedish romantic horror film directed by Tomas Alfredson, based on John Ajvide Lindqvist’s novel. Set in the 1980s, the film tells the story of Oskar (Kåre Hedebrant), a lonely and bullied 12-year-old boy living in a suburb of Stockholm. He befriends Eli (Lina Leandersson), a mysterious and pale girl of his age who only appears at night. As their bond deepens, Oskar discovers that Eli is a vampire responsible for a series of gruesome incidents in the neighborhood. The film masterfully blends elements of horror with a tender coming-of-age story, exploring themes of friendship, isolation, and the moral complexities of survival. Renowned for its atmospheric cinematography and nuanced performances, “Let the Right One In” has received international acclaim and has been regarded as a modern classic in the horror genre.
Summary
These films offer a range of genres and stories, from critically acclaimed dramas to heartwarming comedies and thrilling horrors. They showcase both international and Swedish cinema, providing diverse viewing options for audiences in Sweden.
Please note that streaming availability can change over time. For the most current selection, refer to Amazon Prime Video’s official platform.