This is of course the original Swedish version of this film, soon to be joined for posterity by a U.S. version featuring Tom Hanks. The comparison between the two productions should prove to be interesting.

I actually enjoyed the movie a bit more than I did the book. Perhaps it is because I write novels myself. I found I did not connect with the printed lead character at all, whereas I felt much more sympathy for the movie character. By necessity a movie reduces the number of scenes usually, so there were fewer episodes of Ove being belligerent, plus the actor playing him was subtle in showing both wit and moments of caring at times. In the book I had more sympathy for his upbeat and witty wife, thinking, why does she stay with him?

In the book I was more aware of the passage of time. I suppose a movie tells a story in a different way, so it is less necessary to know the length of time taking place between major scenes. I was also more aware in the film that the setting seemed more claustrophobic. Most of the action was indoors, in the residents’ yards or neighborhood, or at the cemetery. There aren’t many wide shots, unusually for a Scandinavian production. It reflects the narrow confines of Ove’s existence also, I suppose.

Anyway, the writing is strong and thre acting, as near as a subtitle viewer can tell, is excellent. Like I said, I await with interest the Tom Hanks version. They will have trouble improving upon this version.

The life after the loved one departed.

This is a Swedish film based on the book of the same name. It is sent to represent the nation at the 2017 Oscars and as for now, it made into the December shortlist. This is the tale of an old grumpy man and the life after the death of his wife. That would be a toughest phase of life for anybody. I am sure you had seen many films like this, but this one was slightly different, yet totally convincing on every topic it focused on. So funny, at a time meaningful and emotional, particularly how the tale ends.

In a small township, a 59 year old man called Ove lived most of his life and now he decides to take his life. But the attempt was prevented when a new lousy neighbour arrives and so it keep delays further. Now's the time to reveal all the reasons behind his dreadful decision with lots of flashbacks and current affairs. That he's a nightmare in his neigbourhood to those who break the rules. He's not a friendly type, because of his childhood and the lessons he learnt from his father to face the life as tough it gets.

The only friend he ever had did not last for a long. His wife was his world and then the job at the railway. The narration given a good enough focus on his romance life. His younger version, played by another actor reveals particularly the initial stage like how he had met her. I don't know these actors, but they all were so good. A perfect setting as well for the story to take place. I think the filmmakers did lots of best decisions and in the end it all paid off with a greater recognition in the international level.

> "Honesty is the best thing, Ove. But sometimes honesty needs a little help."

A heartwarming comedy-drama for all age groups. I was looking for such a film and I realised only after watching it. The character Ove was designed awesomely and all the story events built around him was excellent. Covered most of the topics like friendship, love, neighbours, job, moral values, even the pet animals. Loads of fun, guaranteed entertainment if you are seeking a comedy film. As Ove was portrayed very seriously, all his actions, especially the newly arrived woman make major difference to end the film most comedic way.

The regularly visiting his wife's grave, the film beautifully gives an insight on the life of Ove being a widower and a retiree. But also how it all turns around for him who never laughs and finally he does, was the film's highlight. Like I always say, I'm not a book person, but I love watching films based on the good books like this one. An awesome adaptation and I hope those who loved the book, as well enjoyed the film.

Usually all the good films run nearly or over two hours. Because of the slow and steady developments in its characters and the story. For this film, you won't notice the time. The pace of the narration, including the lovable characters and the storyline makes you forget everything else. In a few days the 89th American Academy Awards nominees will be announced and I am sure it will make. Looks like this year, three Scandinavian films going to make the noise at the Oscars. In the meantime, I hint you not to miss it, either it wins or lose, it is one of the best films of the year around the world.

_8/10_

**THE GOOD: 'A MAN CALLED OVE’**

WRITING: 75
ACTING: 85
LOOK: 70
SOUND: 60
FEEL: 80
NOVELTY: 10
ENJOYMENT: 80
RE-WATCHABILITY: 90
INTRIGUE: 75
EXPECTATIONS: 85

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**THE GOOD:**

Rolf Lassgård is phenomenal as a grumpy widower that turns slowly into a warm-hearted old man. He captures the fine balance between the two sides of the same coin, thus making him impossible to dislike.

This is a fairly typical Nordic tragicomedy, dealing with loss and depression by the means of black humour and situational comedy. It feels respectfully funny by actually having depth and a clear message to deliver.

There’s a fine balance between the scenes set in the past, showcasing Ove’s tragic youth and the scenes set in the present, with the depressed Ove ready to give up on life.

The atmosphere is heartbreaking and daft at times, but also heartwarming, genuinely funny and warm, particularly as we see Ove starting to overcome his grief and enjoy his life and the company of the new people around him.

With touching dignity and genuine warmth, this film seeks to teach us to enjoy every single day of our lives, despite us losing everything we hold dear.

This is one of the most heartfelt and emotional Swedish films of the 2010s, balancing beautifully between drama and comedy, without ever feeling like too much of the one thing.

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**THE BAD:**

This film is one among many with similar plots, dealing with heavy themes through black comedy and telling the life story of one individual. Thus, it offers little new to audiences, despite the stylish production and talented cast.

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**THE UGLY:**

Also known as The Depressed Individual's Guide to Unsuccessful Suicide.

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**THE VERDICT:**

_Heartfelt, funny and beautifully put together, A Man Called Ove remains one of the best examples of the rare emotional potential of Swedish cinema._

**71% = :white_check_mark: = GOOD**