The New Country
The New Country

Movie spotlight

The New Country

2000
Movie
128 min
Swedish

A 15-year-old Somalian boy meets a 40-year-old Iranian man in a refugee camp in Skåne, in the south of Sweden. With the threat of deportation hanging over them, they decide to take their faiths in their own hands and together they go on a journey in the Swedish summer.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Mikael HåfströmGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In 1970s Sweden, a closeted gay man finds himself drawn to his rugby coach. He navigates the complexities of his desires while dealing with societal pressures and the challenges of coming out in a less accepting era. The film explores themes of identity, repression, and the search for belonging.

Critical Reception

The New Country received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of a gay man's struggle in mid-20th century Sweden. Critics praised its subtle direction, strong performances, and thoughtful exploration of themes often overlooked in cinema at the time. It was recognized for its historical accuracy and emotional resonance.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its nuanced depiction of a man grappling with his sexuality.

  • Applauded for its atmospheric setting and period detail.

  • Noted for its emotional depth and compelling character development.

Google audience: Audience reception data for 'The New Country' is not widely available on Google reviews. However, it is generally considered a well-crafted and important film within its genre.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Starfish Award at the Film Festival of Nice.

Fun Fact

The film is set in Sweden during the 1970s, a period when homosexuality was still largely stigmatized and often required individuals to live closeted lives.

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