The Swedish Boys

Synopsis

The Swedish Boys (original title: The Swedish Boys) is a 2020 Swedish drama directed by Mats Helge, featuring Eric Ernerstedt. The film delves into the journey of a group of young friends navigating life, love, and challenges in a small Swedish town. Combining elements of friendship, coming-of-age, and social commentary, the story paints a heartfelt and nuanced portrait of youth, brotherhood, and the complexity of growing up in contemporary Sweden. The film explores themes such as loyalty, identity, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity, enriched by authentic performances and atmospheric cinematography that capture the delicate balance between innocence and maturity.

Cast

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  Eric Ernerstedt

  Jacob

• 

  Charlie Gustafsson

  Joel

• 

  Tom Ljungman

  Axel

• 

  Viktor Åkerblom

  Nicholas

• Julija Green

  Polly

• 

  David Arnesen

  Love

Reviews

The Swedish Boys has drawn a range of responses from critics and audiences. On IMDb, the film holds a modest user rating, reflecting a mixed reception, with some viewers praising its earnest storytelling and character development, while others found it pacing uneven. Critics on Swedish cinema-focused platforms have highlighted the film's heartfelt depiction of youth and commend Eric Ernerstedt's compelling performance in a leading role, noting that the emotional depth resonates well with audiences familiar with the social context. However, some critics pointed out that the film occasionally leans on familiar tropes within coming-of-age narratives, which may limit its appeal to those seeking more innovative storytelling. Rotten Tomatoes does not list a critic score for The Swedish Boys, suggesting limited international coverage, yet audience reviews tend to appreciate the movie's sincerity and localized storytelling. Overall, The Swedish Boys stands as a solid entry in the Scandinavian drama genre, especially for viewers interested in character-driven plots that explore personal growth and social dynamics.