Så som i himmelen

A stunningly made Swedish movie: As it is in heaven

Synopsis: A famed conductor tours the world hoping to create music that will open people's hearts. His own heart, however, is in bad shape. After suffering a heart attack on stage, acclaimed conductor, Daniel Dareus, calls time on his illustrious career and retires to his childhood village in the North of Sweden. With a famous new arrival in town, it isn't long before he is asked to come and listen to the village's sad little church choir. Finding it difficult to resist their pleas for help, he reluctantly agrees to assist.

This is most definitely one of the best movies I have seen all year (but then to my shame, I have mainly seen brainless Hollywood blockbusters this year!). It had a simple setting and plot. And it certainly was refreshing to watch a foreign movie - on this case Swedish. In the movie, you get a glimpse of some of the lives of the people in the choir. And the portrayal of life in this movie is a bit more realistic. Shit happens to some and it doesn't always end well. It also depicts the joys and difficulties of what its like to do life in small village community. Sometimes its great that everyone knows each other. But sometimes, its not! The music in this movie is great (as one would expect from a movie about a famous musician).

Religion and in this case Christianity also makes it as part of the plot. There are some intense moments and exchanges between the pastor and his wife. It was a great reminder of why integrity is so important. And also the need to able to honest and vulnerable about our struggles and weaknesses.

I do highly, highly recommend this movie. Although not everything gets resolved in an ideal Hollywood way, its still a feel good movie and you leave the theatre feeling very satisfied with your movie experience. Its been on in the Penthouse in Wellington for the last few months so for those in Wellie - go watch it soon before it ends!