The Red Baron: Flyboy Adventures and Family Meals

So, I just saw “The Red Baron,” and let me tell ya, it was quite a ride. It’s kinda like when you sit down for a fika and you’re unsure if they will serve you semla or just a boring kanelbulle. You hope for the best and well, you get something in between.

First off, we’ve got Matthias Schweighöfer as Manfred von Richthofen, and he totally nails that whole “aces high” pilot charisma. I mean, he’s charming but also kinda makes you think he could crash at any moment. That’s the point, right? Til Schweiger is also in there, and although I love a bit of Schweiger, here he’s more like a silent hero. Could have used more oomph, if you ask me.

Now, Nikolai Müllerschön, the director, really packed the film with intense aerial dogfights. It’s like watching fireworks, if you replace the sound with roaring engines and gunshots. Reminded me of a family tradition back in the day. Fridays were reserved for dinner and an old war film on TV. And the older folks would be cheering on—not sure if it was for the movie or mom’s night-skogentoast.

But let’s get real, I found myself shifting in my seat when it got too much into the romance. Maybe it was the forced dialogue? Or maybe it’s just the classic Swede in me wanting less talk, more action.

Did I mention the soundtrack tried its best to jerk a tear or two? Well, it felt rather “meh” in places, like trying to sing along to “Snön och blommorna.” But who knows? There’s something nostalgic about it.

Anyway, if you’re in for some high-flying drama with a side of love, give it a go. It’s a mixed bag, but ain’t that life? This film might catch you by surprise, or it might just be your favorite semla-part. Either way, it’s worth a shot. At least you can say you saw an ace pilot once in your life—even if just on a movie screen. Skål!

Check the trailer below