5.8 / 10 (based on 218 reviews)
It’s a late summer evening in Malmö, Sweden. An ambulance leaves a villa in the outskirts of the city. Young people are behind the police barriers in tears. The blue lights flash on the trees along the road. The series is about the inner journey of our 7 main characters which paths will cross this evening. At the beginning of the series, they all wear a mask, a facade. But this also allows them to be revealed at any time, challenged, lose status, friendship and finally love. What is the price of showing your true self?
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Edy Dzafic, Sophia Martinsson, Simona Karpin, Frans Zethraeus
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3 seasons, 29 episodes
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Eagles (2019)
7 / 10 (based on 1158 reviews)
Eagles revolves around a few teenagers living in the Swedish ice hockey town Oskarshamn while experiencing friendship, love, and rivalry on the ice.
Genre: Drama, Romance, Sport
Main Cast: Yandeh Sallah, Adrian Öjvindsson, Alva Bratt, Edvard Olsson
Creators: Stefan H. Lindén
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4 seasons, 38 episodes
Snabba Cash (2021)
7.6 / 10 (based on 10954 reviews)
The entrepreneurial jet set as well as the criminal world is more brutal, chaotic and ruthless than ever. When these two worlds collide, loyalty, friendships, and business partners will be tested in the never-ending quest for easy money.
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller
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2 seasons, 7 episodes, 52.0-minute runtime
Älska mig (2019)
7.8 / 10 (based on 3285 reviews)
Friendship, grief and romance intersect with love in the lives of three generations of people living in Stockholm.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
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2 seasons, 12 episodes
Bonusfamiljen (2017)
7.6 / 10 (based on 4465 reviews)
A drama series exploring the complexities of relationships in modern family life in Northern Europe.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
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Creators: Moa Herngren, Clara Herngren, Felix Herngren
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4 seasons, 38 episodes, 44.0-minute runtime
Tunna blå linjen (2021)
8.1 / 10 (based on 4955 reviews)
An intimate portrayal of the daily life of four police officers, where the line between private and professional life blurs out as tensions heighten in the animated and crime-ridden city of Malmö, Sweden.
Genre: Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Amanda Jansson, Oscar Töringe, Gizem Erdogan, Per Lasson
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1 season, 10 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Zebrarummet (2021)
5.9 / 10 (based on 733 reviews)
When a student at the famous boarding school Tuna Kvarn is found dead, investigators are met with a wall of silence.
Genre: Crime, Drama
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1 season, 8 episodes
Snow Angels (2021)
6.9 / 10 (based on 1561 reviews)
Two days before Christmas, while Sweden is paralyzed by a heavy snowstorm, the five-week-old baby Lucas inexplicably disappears from his home. The experienced police officer Alice thinks that something is not right in parents’ stories.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Josefin Asplund, Ardalan Esmaili, Eva Melander, Maria Rossing
Creators: Mette Heeno
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1 season, 6 episodes, 341.0-minute runtime
Sjölyckan (2018)
6.4 / 10 (based on 534 reviews)
The story follow the Kling family in their paradise in the Stockholm archipelago, Sjölyckan.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Henrik Schyffert, Shima Niavarani, Gustaf Hammarsten, Hans Mosesson
Creators: Niclas Carlsson, Jacob Seth Fransson, Björn Öberg
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3 seasons, 26 episodes, 22.0-minute runtime
Thunder in My Heart (2021)
7.6 / 10 (based on 1164 reviews)
A group of young friends as they come of age and strive to meet the unexpected demands of adult life while coming to terms with their own identities, pasts, and passions.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Amy Deasismont, Alexander Abdallah, Julia Lyskova Juhlin, Gustaf Hammarsten
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1 season, 8 episodes
When it comes to TV shows that have left a mark on viewers, “Festen” (2019) stands out for a multitude of reasons. This Danish series, rooted in drama and mystery, has not only captivated audiences with its storytelling but has also raised the bar for television content. Let’s break down what makes “Festen” noteworthy, without resorting to the usual fluff and filler.
The Premise
At its core, “Festen” is an adaptation of the 1998 film “The Celebration,” directed by Thomas Vinterberg. The series revolves around a grandiose birthday celebration for the patriarch of a wealthy family, which quickly spirals into chaos as dark family secrets start to surface. It’s a gripping narrative that explores themes of betrayal, guilt, and the quest for truth.
Why It Stands Out
Unflinching Storytelling
One of the first things that grab you about “Festen” is its commitment to raw, unflinching storytelling. This isn’t a series that shies away from uncomfortable truths. Instead, it delves deep into the complexities of human relationships, exposing the skeletons in the family’s closet with a precision that’s both unsettling and mesmerizing.
Stellar Cast
The cast of “Festen” brings the story to life with performances that can only be described as riveting. Each actor embodies their character with such depth that viewers can’t help but become emotionally invested in their journeys. From the disillusioned son to the manipulative patriarch, the characters are portrayed with a realism that adds to the show’s immersive experience.
Cinematography and Setting
Set against the backdrop of a lavish estate, the cinematography of “Festen” is nothing short of stunning. The contrast between the opulence of the setting and the dark undercurrents of the narrative adds a layer of irony that enhances the viewing experience. The visual storytelling, with its careful framing and use of light, plays a crucial role in conveying the emotional landscape of the series.
Memorable Moments
“Festen” is filled with moments that stick with you long after the credits roll. One such scene involves the dramatic revelation at the dinner table, where secrets are laid bare in a manner that’s both shocking and deeply moving. It’s a testament to the show’s ability to balance dramatic tension with emotional depth.
Another unforgettable moment is the confrontation between the siblings, which showcases the complexity of their relationships. It’s a scene that resonates with anyone who has experienced the challenges of familial bonds, highlighting the series’ universal appeal.
Impact and Legacy
Since its release, “Festen” has made a significant impact on both audiences and critics alike. It has sparked conversations about the power dynamics within families and the consequences of burying the truth. The show has also been praised for its innovative approach to storytelling, setting a new standard for what can be achieved in the realm of television drama.
In terms of legacy, “Festen” has inspired a wave of creators to explore similar themes in their work, proving that compelling narratives can be found in the exploration of family dynamics and personal trauma. It’s a series that has not only entertained but also challenged its viewers to think critically about the nature of forgiveness and redemption.
Behind the Scenes
The making of “Festen” is a story in itself. The creators and producers went to great lengths to ensure the series remained true to the spirit of the original film while also expanding on its themes and characters. This involved meticulous planning, from the scriptwriting phase to the selection of the cast and locations. The dedication of the crew and actors to bring this story to life is evident in every scene, contributing to the show’s authenticity and emotional impact.
Conclusion
“Festen” is more than just a TV show; it’s an exploration of the human condition, a mirror reflecting the complexities of family life and the consequences of our actions. Its straightforward storytelling, coupled with exceptional performances and visual artistry, makes it a standout series that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.
For those who have yet to watch “Festen,” prepare for a journey that’s as enlightening as it is entertaining. And for those who have, it’s always worth revisiting, as its layers and nuances become more apparent with each viewing. In a landscape often dominated by formulaic content, “Festen” serves as a reminder of the power of compelling, thought-provoking television.