10 Swedish Horror Movies You Must See Before You Die

There are countless horror writers/directors who made a solid impression with their first film but never followed it up; such is the case with Filip Tegstedt and 2011’s Marianne.

Skillfully, its plot – revolving around a man named Krister who suffers nightmares, guilt, and a gradual loss of sanity after his wife dies – mixes compellingly relatable drama with tried-and-true supernatural overtones. (Specifically, Krister’s main tormenter is the namesake creature of Nordic folklore, who haunts him with unsettling purpose.) Beyond that, it incorporates one of the scariest and most prevalent phenomenons known to man: sleep paralysis.

Upon release, it was majorly celebrated for its character development, chilling use of sound and visuals, and ability to successfully merge macabre fantasy with melancholic fiction. It’s even earned comparison to another master of heartache and horror, Guillermo del Toro, as well as praise from outlets such as Fearnet and TheHorrorShow.

Luckily, the trailer efficiently conveys the tone of the movie, evoking the dread of 28 Days Later (and its sequel, of course) with its slow burn and post-rock aesthetic. Plus, the instantly recognizable Peter Stormare turns in a typically engaging performance as Krister’s therapist, Sven.