10 Swedish Horror Movies You Must See Before You Die
3. Alena (2015)
Drawing from Kim W. Andersson’s graphic novel of the same name (and from the same year), Alena explores the damage and deliverance that can arise from schoolyard bullying and pedagogical elitism.
Star Amalia Holm gets viewers on her side quickly and consistently, portraying the requisite sympathetic victim with poise and innocence. Similarly, her best friend – Josefin (Rebecka Nyman) – proves her dedication to Alena in gratifying ways while the villainous classmates and instructors excel at being wickedly watchable.
While its basic premise of social rejection leading to sadistic revenge is well-worn genre territory by now, its refined and absorbing implementation is very satisfying for gore hounds and tormented teens alike. Cinematographer Simon Olsson continuously showcases how picturesque Sweden can be , too, and the soundtrack is tangibly evocative.
In addition, its LGBTQIA+ characterizations are handled sufficiently yet delicately enough to feel organic and necessary, helping give attention and inclusion to people who, for some reason, are still marginalized in the real world.