Partisan: A Peculiar Swedish Puzzle

So I caught “Partisan” last week, and let me tell ya, it’s quite the odd duck. Directed by the Swedish wizard Amir Chamdin and starring the handsome Fares Fares, it’s the kind of show that left me scratching my head but in a good way. You know, like when you’re trying to figure out the IKEA furniture instructions and you finally manage to assemble a perfectly solid Billy shelf without any extra screws left.

The whole vibe of the series—a mysterious gated community in the Swedish woods—felt a bit like a twisted version of the Swedish midsommar celebrations, where everyone’s just a hair too friendly. It reminded me of a time I once attended a similar shindig out in Småland. There was a maypole, strange dances, and, well, some truly questionable Herring. Not everyone makes it quite as palatable as Grandma does!

Fares Fares delivers a performance that’s quietly intense—like he’s holding onto a secret in every scene. It’s almost like he’s the Swedish James Bond but with a Volvo instead of an Aston Martin.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting—or perhaps, confusing. The theme of control and rebellion stirred something in me. Took me back to when I, like many Swedes, did my stint in military service. It’s that feeling of wanting to march to your own drum while everyone else insists on a different tune.

One thing’s for sure, “Partisan” doesn’t spoon-feed you anything, and I kinda love it for that. It’s the kind of show that’ll keep me thinking for a good while—and honestly, that’s more than half the fun. If you’ve got a penchant for Swedish cinema or just enjoy a good ol’ dramatic mystery, give it a whirl.

Check the trailer below