The Face of an Angel: A Mixed Bag With a Hint of Falu Red

So, I watched “The Face of an Angel,” directed by Michael Winterbottom. It’s this odd mix of drama and mystery. You know, like wearing a tux to a kräftskiva (crayfish party)—it feels a bit out of place but interesting enough to make you stay. The movie’s got Daniel Brühl and the amazing Kate Beckinsale. You’d think with stars like these, it would shine, right? Mmmm, not entirely.

The film’s inspired by real events involving that infamous case in Italy. While Brühl and Beckinsale try to navigate the murky waters of truth, I found myself thinking more about my own trip to Rome back in ’98. Lost my luggage at Fiumicino and ended up wandering the Colosseum wearing a ‘visit-sweden.com’ t-shirt in lieu of my original, more stylish outfits. It’s funny how chaos helps you notice the beauty in things otherwise mundane.

Brühl plays this tortured filmmaker trying to craft a story from tragedy, and you know, it feels like trying to make surströmming appetizing to foreigners—an uphill challenge. The cinematography’s pretty engaging, though. There are moments where the landscapes and cityscapes talk louder than the dialogue.

As I watched, a sense of confusion wrapped around me like one of those woolen sweaters grandma used to knit, a bit scratchy but warm. Yeah, the narrative’s kind a jumbled, like a medley of ABBA songs played backwards; you’re not quite sure where it’s headed.

Don’t get me wrong, the film does have its moments. If you’re in the mood for a blend of philosophy and mystery—or perhaps pondering life’s peculiarities over a fika—this one might just pique your curiosity. But, meh, I’m not sure if it sticks the landing like, say, Bergman did in his heyday. Would love to hear your thoughts, maybe over some kaffe och bullar?

Check the trailer below