A Stroll Through Space with 5th Passenger

Hej, movie lovers! So, last night I curled up with a cup of strong Swedish kaffe and watched “5th Passenger.” Now, here’s a film that mixes sci-fi with a sprinkle of social commentary. You remember Tim Russ from “Star Trek: Voyager”? Well, he’s here, plus Marina Sirtis from “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” The starry nostalgia was shining bright, like the midsummer sun in Sweden.

The story? It’s set in the cramped, claustrophobic confines of an escape pod after the explosion of a starship. It’s a real nail-biter, but honestly, I struggled a bit to keep my socks on. There’s a deeper message about class struggles and survival, but sometimes it felt as subtle as dropping a Västerbotten cheese on the floor—loud and a bit awkward.

Okay, there was a moment that hit me like a sack of potatoes—back in the day, I was stuck in an elevator during a film festival in Malmö. Panic city! Much like our characters, I wanted out, but with less potential alien peril. That feeling of confinement, it’s portrayed well here, though the creature effects weren’t Zemeckis-level, if you ask me.

What I did appreciate was the gritty take on hierarchy. Makes one ponder about the old Swedish principle of “lagom”—not too much, just right—and how far we deviate under pressure. The director, Scotty Baker, attempts to weave a tapestry of tension and humanity, though I’m not entirely sure all threads are tightly knitted.

In the end, it’s a rollercoaster through space that has its highs and lows. Would I watch it again? Maybe on a slow Sunday with a side of kanelbullar, pondering how we fare when things get riktigt tough. Give it a go if you’re into space dramas with a touch of societal critiques—just don’t forget your fika!

Check the trailer below