A Nordic Noir Infused with Melancholy and Violence:
TV4’s "Vargasommar," a six-part crime series based on Hans Rosenfeldt’s novel, plunges viewers into the chilling world of Haparanda, a border town straddling Sweden and Finland. The series, far from a lighthearted Christmas watch, explores the ramifications of a seemingly simple act of theft that spirals into a maelstrom of violence and escalating stakes. When Sandra and Kenneth, a local couple, stumble upon an abandoned bag of cash after a car accident, they unwittingly ignite a chain of events that will draw them into a world of ruthless criminals and unforgiving consequences. Their ill-fated decision to keep the money intersects with pre-existing criminal activity in the area, escalating tensions that reach across the border into Finland and towards Russia. Adding to the unsettling atmosphere is the discovery of dead wolves with human remains in their stomachs, a gruesome detail that further underscores the dark undercurrents running through the narrative.
A Familiar Crime Trope Reinvigorated with Atmospheric Depth:
While the premise of ill-gotten gains leading to dire consequences might seem familiar, "Vargasommar" transcends the well-trodden path of crime thrillers through its masterful creation of atmosphere and its complex character portrayals. The series echoes themes explored in "No Country for Old Men" and "A Simple Plan," reminding viewers of the enduring fascination with ordinary people making extraordinary choices, and the devastating fallout that often follows. However, "Vargasommar" carves its own distinct identity through its setting, its cast of eccentric characters, and the underlying sense of melancholy that permeates the story. While borrowing the element of a near-supernatural hitman, reminiscent of Anton Chigurh from "No Country for Old Men," the series differentiates its killer through charisma and an enigmatic presence, rather than sheer, terrifying brutality.
Eliot Sumner’s Captivating Performance as a Mercurial Hitman:
One of the series’ most striking elements is the performance of Eliot Sumner, who portrays the enigmatic hitman Kat. Sumner’s portrayal of Kat, a non-binary character, transcends the typical portrayal of a cold-blooded killer, injecting the role with a captivating blend of zen-like calm and explosive violence. Kat becomes a magnetic force on screen, a figure whose motives and actions remain shrouded in mystery, adding another layer of intrigue to the already complex narrative. Their performance is hailed as a standout, commanding attention and leaving a lasting impression. This compelling portrayal stands in contrast to the more conventional, albeit still compelling, performance of Henrik Dorsin, who plays a grief-stricken husband providing a grounding presence amidst the escalating chaos.
A Supporting Cast of Quirky Characters and a Touch of Dark Humor:
Despite the grim backdrop, "Vargasommar" incorporates a subtle thread of dark humor through its supporting characters. Albin Grenholm’s shady car mechanic, Olle Sarri’s sadistic hauler, Amed Bozan’s impulsive ex-con, and Mikaela Pålsson’s earthy bureaucrat all contribute a unique, eccentric energy to the series. Their interactions and individual storylines provide moments of levity and unexpected humor, counterbalancing the oppressive atmosphere and preventing the narrative from becoming overwhelmingly bleak. This carefully balanced blend of darkness and humor adds depth and complexity to the world of "Vargasommar," making it more than just a straightforward crime thriller.
Visual Poetry and Laconic Storytelling in a Bleak Landscape:
The series’ visual language is another key element that sets it apart. The stark beauty of the Norrbotten landscape, with its endless skies and desolate stretches, captured through the lens of cinematographer Jallo Faber, provides a visually stunning backdrop for the unfolding drama. The camerawork evokes the style of Lars Tunbjörk, with its focus on capturing the quiet desperation and subtle absurdities of everyday life. This visual style enhances the overall mood of the series, adding a layer of poetic realism to the narrative. The proximity to Finland and Russia further influences the storytelling, introducing a laconic rhythm that mirrors the vastness of the landscape and adds a unique cultural dimension to the narrative.
A Forgiving Heart Amidst Violence and Despair:
Despite the pervasive violence and despair that permeate "Vargasommar," the series also reveals a surprising undercurrent of empathy and understanding for its flawed characters. This is particularly evident in the portrayal of Hannah Wester (Eva Melander), the world-weary police officer grappling with personal demons and the weight of her responsibilities. The series delves into her troubled relationships and internal struggles, adding a human dimension to the crime narrative. This focus on character development and emotional depth allows “Vargasommar” to transcend the typical crime thriller formula, exploring themes of loss, grief, and the enduring power of human connection even in the darkest of circumstances. This delicate balance of darkness and light, violence and compassion, elevates "Vargasommar" from a standard crime drama to a poignant exploration of the human condition in a harsh and unforgiving world.
