128 Essential Swedish Films
128 titles
- 101
The Norrtull GangMovie · 1923 · 86mThis film follows a group of office workers navigating a male-dominated workplace. It explores their bonds of female friendship, the challenges women faced in fighting for equality during the labor and civil rights movements, and the complexities of balancing romantic relationships with professional ambitions.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.4 - 102
The Virgin SpringMovie · 1960 · 90m · Drama, HistoryTwo young girls, Karin and her foster sister Ingeri, are sent by their religious parents on a candle delivery to a distant church. Their journey through the woods takes a dark turn when they encounter a group of violent goat herders. Karin is brutally attacked, while Ingeri hides and witnesses the horror.
The girls' lives are shattered when the attackers seek refuge at Karin's parents' home. Karin's father, Töre, plans a vengeful response against those who destroyed his family. This drama examines faith, revenge, and redemption in the wake of a terrible crime and the lengths a father will go to avenge his daughter.Stream onIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8
- 103
Love 65Movie · 1965 · 96mA filmmaker struggles with his marriage and his wife, finding his daughter to be their only shared bond. He seeks connection and intimacy outside his marriage, leading to a short-term relationship with another married woman.Stream onIMDb 6.1TMDB 5.8
- 104
Let the Right One InMovie · 2008 · 115m · Horror, DramaTwelve-year-old Oskar, a shy and often bullied boy, befriends his new neighbor, Eli, a mysterious and somewhat withdrawn girl. Their friendship begins tentatively, but Oskar and Eli gradually grow close. However, it soon becomes clear that Eli is not like other children.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5
- 105
GuiltMovie · 1965 · 86mA young couple accidentally kill someone in a car – a man who was escaping from a mental asylum. As they try to understand what happened, they embark on a journey across the country. They soon realize the accident isn't the only thing they're running from; it mirrors their own personal struggles. The event forces them to confront their emotions and find a way to resolve their issues.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.0 - 106
The Apple WarMovie · 1971 · 103m · Comedy, FantasyA German entrepreneur wants to buy large areas of land in scenic southern Sweden to build "Deutschneyland," a massive amusement park with a German theme. He encounters strong resistance from the local community, particularly the unusual Lindberg family. Known for their magical abilities, the Lindbergs are determined to protect their land and way of life from the disruptive development. The story follows their humorous and persistent struggle, exploring the conflict between personal ambition and community bonds, all against the beautiful Swedish landscape.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.9 - 107
Time Has No NameMovie · 1989 · 60mThis documentary follows the daily lives of a married couple working on a small farm. It offers a visual look at their everyday routines.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.0 - 108
The ApeMovie · 2009 · 81m · Drama, ThrillerJesper Ganslandt's unsettling and suspenseful second film follows a man who awakens in an unfamiliar place, discovering that his previous life no longer exists.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.9 - 109
The Guardian AngelMovie · 1990 · 108mIn a European country around 1912, amidst political turmoil, a man named Jacob (Philip Zandén), dressed only in black, is hired to assassinate Interior Minister Joel Birkman (Etienne Glaser) following a violent suppression of a student protest. He becomes the minister's bodyguard at his summer home, becoming involved in the Birkman family's affairs and political dealings.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.2 - 110
Pelle the ConquerorMovie · 1987 · 157m · DramaIn late 19th-century Denmark, this moving film tells the story of Lasse Karlsson and his son Pelle, who travel to the island of Bornholm seeking farm work. Driven by hopes of a better life in America, the hardworking pair strive to save money for the journey.
Life on the island presents challenges as they deal with language differences and adapting to rural farm life. As father and son connect with their new community, they face a difficult choice: whether to leave behind a place that has become home.
The film is a touching exploration of family, ambition, and the search for opportunity during a time when many people dreamed of starting over in a new country. With stunning scenery and a compelling story, viewers are immersed in Lasse and Pelle's unforgettable experience.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.2
- 111
Here Is Your LifeMovie · 1966 · 169mIn 1910s rural Sweden, a young man from a working-class background navigates the challenges of adulthood. He takes on various jobs and experiences different relationships, each experience subtly influencing the path he will ultimately follow.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
- 112
The Girl in TailsMovie · 1926 · 114mAs Katja prepares to graduate, she lacks an outfit for the graduation ball. Her father, Carl Axel Kock, an eccentric inventor, often favors his son Curry, leaving Katja feeling overlooked. On the night of the ball, Katja borrows her brother's new tuxedo and attends the dance, indulging in cigars and brandy, which results in a public stir.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 113
Smiles of a Summer NightMovie · 1955 · 109m · Comedy, RomanceIn early 20th century Scandinavia, lawyer Fredrik Egerman and his young wife Anne face marital challenges, including difficulties with intimacy. Their son forms a close bond with Anne. The situation becomes complicated when Fredrik's former lover, Desiree, publicly bets she can seduce him at a weekend retreat with four couples. As the couples swap partners, unexpected connections form, highlighting themes of desire, loyalty, and love's complexities. The film offers a detailed look at the messy realities of relationships.Stream onIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4
- 114
Children's IslandMovie · 1980 · 104m · Drama, Family, RomanceThough "Children's Island" is his ultimate goal, Stockholm becomes Reine's world this summer. While his mother works long hours at the hospital, she unintentionally leaves him to explore the busy city on his own. Reine has an unexpected adventure, facing challenges and making discoveries with both curiosity and nervousness.
Over the summer, we see Reine grow as he meets all sorts of people and explores the city's parks and markets. He learns important lessons. The film is a touching story about becoming independent, showing Reine’s journey as a coming-of-age experience and a look at the good and hard parts of city life.
This moving film follows young Reine through many experiences that change how he sees life and people, while also showing how strong and resourceful children are when they have the chance to find their way.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 115
RegrettersMovie · 2010 · 58mTwo men in their sixties connect for the first time and share their experiences with gender transition, including both the initial changes and their later reversals.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.3 - 116
HäxanMovie · 1922 · 105m · Documentary, Horror, HistoryBenjamin Christensen’s innovative film examines medieval witchcraft through a series of dramatic scenes. It compares the accusations against witches in the Middle Ages to the mental illnesses of his own time, exploring the psychological roots of these frightening events.
The darkly comedic film combines horror, disturbing visuals, and unsettling humor for a memorable experience. The story features grave robbing, brutal torture, and a group of possessed nuns holding a satanic ritual.
Blending frightening sequences with macabre wit, the film takes viewers to another time while prompting reflection on superstition, belief, and the human mind's susceptibility to mass hysteria.Stream onIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6
- 117
IntermezzoMovie · 1936 · 93mA passionate romance ignites between a married concert violinist, played by Gösta Ekman, and his daughter's music teacher, portrayed by Ingrid Bergman.Stream onIMDb 6.5TMDB 5.9
- 118
TormentMovie · 1944 · 101m · DramaJan-Erik Widgren's life changes when he meets Bertha Olsson, a woman struggling with alcohol and her history. Their relationship begins, despite Bertha's connection to Jan-Erik's teacher, Caligula. When Caligula discovers the affair, he retaliates by psychologically tormenting Jan-Erik. Caligula's cruelty extends to Bertha, leading her to tragedy. This drama examines the complicated relationships between these three people and the devastating impact of one person's cruelty.Stream onIMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1
- 119
Autumn SonataMovie · 1978 · 93m · DramaThis drama follows Charlotte Andergast, a famous classical pianist, as she returns to Sweden after seven years to try and rebuild a relationship with her daughter, Eva. Their relationship has been strained because Charlotte focused on her career instead of being a mother. During a difficult night together, mother and daughter confront painful memories. Charlotte discovers that Eva has taken in their sister, Helena, who was previously in an institution. This reveals hidden aspects of their family history and complicates their already fragile connection.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 8.0
- 120
JuneMovie · 2007 · 45mThree separate stories explore fractured friendships, excessive drinking, and the damaging effects of power. All take place in Sweden during the month of June.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.0 - 121
StillebenMovie · 1985 · 110mA young man, dressed in clothing and with hair indicative of the 1700s, hides in the bushes. He tears a page from a book, wraps it with a string, and then approaches a girl to give it to her.IMDb 5.9 - 122
Hallo BabyMovie · 1976 · 106mA young woman navigates life in a bustling 1970s city while pursuing her artistic dreams. Through a series of relationships, she lands a minor role in a play and subsequently discovers she is pregnant.IMDb 5.9TMDB 4.7 - 123
Dunderklumpen!Movie · 1974 · 97mDunderklumpen lives in solitude in the mountains of Jämtland. Feeling deeply lonely on Midsummer's Eve, he embarks on a journey to find companionship.Stream onIMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4
- 124
The Seventh SealMovie · 1957 · 96m · Fantasy, DramaIn 14th century Sweden, during the Black Death, Antonius Block – a knight returning from the Crusades – struggles with life and questions his faith. Witnessing widespread suffering and the apparent absence of God, Block defiantly challenges Death to a game of chess. He journeys with two travelers, Jof and Mia, forming a bond and seeking one final good deed before he dies. The film blends historical drama with philosophical ideas, exploring mortality, faith, and human connection amidst widespread disease and despair.Stream onIMDb 8.1TMDB 8.2
- 125
TsatsikiMovie · 1999 · 91mIn Sweden, little Tsatsiki has never known his Greek fisherman father. He befriends a kind, disciplined police officer who rents a room in their house and decides the officer is perfect for his mother, an amateur rock singer who is romantically involved with her band's bassist.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.7 - 126
A Man There WasMovie · 1917 · 56m · Drama, History"Terje Vigen" is a drama about forgiveness and revenge. It tells the story of Terje, a sailor who, after a devastating loss caused by someone else's inflexibility, sets out to find peace.
Years later, Terje's enemy needs his help. With their roles reversed and the enemy's family now relying on Terje, he must decide whether to seek revenge or offer forgiveness.
The film explores the complexities of human nature and the consequences of our choices. It examines the impact of revenge and the profound effect forgiveness can have on everyone involved. This story reminds us of the importance of understanding and empathy.Stream onIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1
- 127
The New LandMovie · 1972 · 202m · Drama, Western, HistoryIn the mid-1800s, a Swedish family journeys to America's frontier hoping for a better life. They face challenges adjusting to their new surroundings during the Civil War and Native American conflicts. The search for gold in California adds another layer of difficulty. Overcoming cultural differences, language barriers, and difficult terrain, the family grows closer as they persevere. The dream of a prosperous future remains elusive. This story explores themes of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of opportunity during a time of conflict and expansion.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.5 - 128
Cries and WhispersMovie · 1972 · 95m · DramaThis film is a deeply emotional story about three sisters facing a loved one’s approaching death and their own personal difficulties. As Agnes battles cancer, her sisters are consumed by their own emotional struggles, making it hard for them to offer the support she needs in her final days. The drama explores how family can both comfort and hinder healing during difficult times. It examines themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and complicated relationships, offering a close look at the painful process of dealing with loss and mortality.Stream onIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.9