To Cook a Bear

Synopsis

"To Cook a Bear" (original title "Koka björn") is a gripping historical thriller series starring Gustaf Skarsgård that unfolds in 1980s rural Sweden. The show centers on the tense and unnerving encounters between a brutal ex-convict and the local inhabitants of a remote mountain village. As the story delves into themes of survival, justice, and the human capacity for darkness and redemption, it expertly combines elements of psychological suspense with raw, atmospheric storytelling. The stark, rugged landscape forms a powerful backdrop, enhancing the mood of isolation and menace that permeates the series.

Cast

• 

  Gustaf Skarsgård

  The Priest

• 

  Emil Karlsen

  Jussi

• 

  Jonas Karlsson

  Lindmark

• 

  Pernilla August

  Madam Sjödahl

• 

  Ane Dahl Torp

  Brita Kajsa

• 

  Magnus Krepper

  Brahe

Reviews

Critics have generally praised "To Cook a Bear" for its intense atmosphere and compelling performances, particularly highlighting Gustaf Skarsgård's nuanced portrayal of the complex lead character. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds an approval rating of 85%, with reviewers commending its ability to blend raw realism with a slow-burning suspense narrative. Metacritic assigns it a score of 78, interpreting this as generally favorable reviews. The show's meticulous attention to period detail and cinematography has been spotlighted by several reviewers, with The Guardian describing it as "a haunting tapestry of mystery and moral ambiguity." However, some critiques cite the pacing as occasionally slow, and the dark, bleak tone might not appeal to all viewers. IMDb ratings reflect a solid 7.9/10 based on user reviews, emphasizing its gripping story and atmospheric setting. Overall, "To Cook a Bear" is celebrated as an intense, thought-provoking thriller that doesn't shy away from exploring the darker aspects of human nature.