New Movies: The Swedish Torpedo (2024) by Frida Kempff

"The Swedish Torpedo (2024)": Defying Currents for a Dream

Description: From Swedish director Frida Kempff, "The Swedish Torpedo (2024)," originally titled "Den svenska torpeden," is a compelling biographical sports drama that chronicles the remarkable true story of Sally Bauer, a Swedish long-distance swimmer in the late 1930s. The film captures Bauer's determined pursuit of her dream to swim the English Channel, set against the backdrop of immense personal challenges, societal constraints faced by women and single mothers of the era, and the looming threat of the Second World War.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9861200/

Link Review: https://cineuropa.org/en/newsdetail/467196/

About movie: https://mspfilm.org/show/the-swedish-torpedo/

https://www.urbandistrib.com/films/the-swedish-torpedo/

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/se/film/den-svenska-torpeden-2024 (Sweden)

Detailed Summary: Set in Sweden on the eve of World War II, "The Swedish Torpedo" introduces Sally Bauer, a woman with an unyielding passion for long-distance swimming. Despite facing significant hurdles, including financial strain, the societal stigma of being a single mother, and personal complexities in her relationships, Sally is driven by a singular goal: to conquer the formidable English Channel. The film portrays the rigorous physical and mental training required for such a feat, as well as the emotional toll it takes on Sally and her relationships, particularly with her young son and his married father. As the political climate in Europe darkens and war becomes increasingly inevitable, the urgency of Sally's mission intensifies. The film highlights her resilience and stubborn determination as she navigates these turbulent waters, both literally and figuratively, challenging conventions and seeking the support she needs to achieve her extraordinary ambition before it's too late.

Plot Summary:

• The film tells the true story of Swedish swimmer Sally Bauer in the late 1930s.

• Sally is a single mother determined to swim the English Channel.

• She faces financial difficulties, societal judgment, and personal relationship challenges.

• The impending Second World War adds urgency to her goal.

• The film depicts her training, struggles, and pursuit of her dream against the odds.

The plot is a biographical drama focusing on a woman's fight for personal and athletic achievement against a challenging historical and social backdrop.

Director's Vision: Frida Kempff, known for her previous work in both documentary ("Winter Buoy") and narrative film ("Knocking"), directs "The Swedish Torpedo." Her vision for this film is to bring the inspiring, yet relatively unsung, story of Sally Bauer to a wider audience. Having previously explored themes of strong-willed women and often incorporating water imagery in her work, Bauer's story is a natural fit for Kempff. She aimed to create an affectionate yet honest portrayal of Bauer, acknowledging her complexities as a mother and a woman ahead of her time. Kempff has mentioned being inspired by a biographical novel about Bauer and feeling compelled to share the story of this courageous woman who defied societal expectations. The film is described as an "arthouse film" where Kempff takes artistic freedom in telling Bauer's story while maintaining an authentic emotional connection to her dreams and struggles.

Themes:

• Pursuing Dreams Against Odds: The central theme is Sally Bauer's unwavering determination to achieve her ambitious swimming goal despite numerous obstacles.

• Overcoming Societal Expectations: The film explores the pressures and judgments faced by women in the 1930s, particularly single mothers, who dared to pursue personal ambitions outside of traditional roles.

• Motherhood and Ambition: The film delves into the complex balance between Sally's dedication to her son and her personal drive to succeed as an athlete.

• Resilience and Tenacity: Sally's character embodies resilience in the face of financial hardship, personal setbacks, and physical challenges.

• The Impact of Historical Events: The impending Second World War serves as a significant backdrop, adding urgency and a sense of a closing window of opportunity.

• Breaking Conventions: Sally's actions and lifestyle challenge the social norms of her time.

• Love and Relationships: The film explores Sally's relationships, including a complicated one with her son's father.

Key Success Factors:

• Inspiring True Story: The biographical nature of the film and Sally Bauer's remarkable achievement provide a compelling narrative.

• Strong Lead Performance: Josefin Neldén's portrayal of Sally Bauer has been widely praised for its sensitivity and tenacity.

• Acclaimed Director: Frida Kempff's growing reputation as a director, particularly after "Knocking," brings attention to the film.

• Relevant Historical and Social Context: The film offers insights into the societal constraints faced by women in the past and the atmosphere leading up to WWII.

• Festival Premieres and Award Nominations: Premiering at TIFF and receiving nominations for prestigious Swedish film awards indicate critical recognition and quality.

Summary Short: Frida Kempff's "The Swedish Torpedo (2024)" is a biographical drama about Swedish swimmer Sally Bauer's determined quest to swim the English Channel in the late 1930s, battling personal, societal, and historical challenges.

Awards and Nominations: "The Swedish Torpedo (2024)" has received several notable award nominations:

• Guldbagge Awards (Swedish National Film Awards) 2025: Nominated for Best Picture, Best Actress in a Leading Role (Josefin Neldén), Best Production Design, Best Actress in a Supporting Role, Best Screenplay, Best Visual Effects, Best Costume Design, and Best Make-up.

• Stockholm Film Festival 2024: Nominated for Best Film.

• Mons International Festival of Love Films 2025 (Belgium): Won the Grand Prize.

The film had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2024. It also premiered at the Europe Around Europe Festival in Paris in April 2025.

Critics Reception: "The Swedish Torpedo (2024)" has generally received positive reviews from critics, with particular praise for Josefin Neldén's central performance and Frida Kempff's direction in bringing Sally Bauer's story to life. The film is seen as a moving and well-crafted biographical drama.

• Cineuropa: Describes the film as an "affectionate biopic" and highlights Kempff's evident affection for strong-willed women. The review praises Josefin Neldén as "just the right and versatile person to play Bauer."

• That Shelf: Notes that despite the surrounding chaos, the film "never loses its aim, which is family," emphasizing Bauer's role as a mother pursuing her dreams.

• MovieZine (Swedish): While acknowledging the film's compelling story and Neldén's performance, one review found the portrayal of Bauer "lukewarm" at times, suggesting a lack of deeper exploration, but still called it a "lukewarm swimming portrait." Other Swedish reviews cited by the sales agent are more overtly positive, calling it a "masterpiece."

• Reviews cited by Salomonsson Agency (Sales Agent): These reviews are highly positive, describing the film as a "deeply affecting sports docudrama," "exhilarating and heartfelt," a "buoyant, self-willed, defiant biopic," and a "masterclass in subtlety." They praise Neldén's mesmerizing performance and Kempff's "vicious, precise, and sincerely mesmerizing" direction.

Overall Critics Reception: The critical reception is largely positive, with strong acclaim for Josefin Neldén's performance and Frida Kempff's sensitive direction. The film is recognized for its inspiring true story and its exploration of relevant social themes, although there might be some variation in opinion regarding the depth of character portrayal. Its multiple award nominations in Sweden further underscore its positive critical standing nationally.

Reviews: Reviews for "The Swedish Torpedo" emphasize the film's emotional impact and the strength of its central performance.

• Key Praises: Critics consistently laud Josefin Neldén's portrayal of Sally Bauer, finding her performance sensitive, tenacious, and mesmerizing. Frida Kempff's direction is praised for its ability to create an engaging biographical drama and for her visual style. The film's exploration of the challenges faced by women in the 1930s and the balance between motherhood and personal ambition are seen as compelling. The authentic feel of the period setting and the impactful swimming scenes are also positive points.

• Points of Criticism: One review suggested that the film could have delved deeper into Sally Bauer's character at times.

Overall Reviews: The available reviews indicate that "The Swedish Torpedo" is a well-received biographical sports drama, particularly in Sweden, celebrated for its inspiring true story, strong lead performance, and sensitive direction in depicting a woman's fight for her dream against significant odds.

Production: "The Swedish Torpedo (2024)" is a multinational co-production involving Sweden, Estonia, Finland, and Belgium. The production companies include Momento Film (Sweden), Amrion (Estonia), Velvet Films (Belgium), Inland Film Company (Finland), Film i Väst (Sweden), in co-production with television broadcasters such as SVT (Sweden), TV4 (Sweden), RTBF (Belgian Television), and Proximus (Belgium). The film was directed by Frida Kempff and the screenplay was co-written by Kempff and Marietta von Hausswolff von Baumgarten. Josefin Neldén stars as Sally Bauer, with Mikkel Boe Følsgaard and Lisa Carlehed in key supporting roles. Hannes Krantz was the cinematographer, and Martin Dirkov composed the music.

Production Companies:

• Momento Film (Sweden)

• Amrion (Estonia)

• Velvet Films (Belgium)

• Inland Film Company (Finland)

• Film i Väst (Sweden)

• Sveriges Television AB - SVT (Sweden)

• TV4 (Sweden)

• RTBF - Radio Télévision Belge Francophone (Belgium)

• Proximus (Belgium)

Sales Companies:

• Urban Sales (France) - Handles international sales for the film.

Distribution Companies:

• TriArt Film AB (Sweden) - Distributed the film in Sweden.

• Scandinavian Film Distribution is also mentioned as a distributor.

• Distribution in other territories will be handled by companies that acquire the rights from Urban Sales.

Theatrical Release: "The Swedish Torpedo (2024)" had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2024. It was theatrically released in Sweden on November 15, 2024. It also had a premiere screening at the Europe Around Europe Festival in Paris in April 2025. Information on theatrical releases in other countries will be announced by international distributors.

Why to Recommend This Movie:

• Inspiring True Story of Resilience: The film tells the remarkable story of a woman who defied expectations to achieve her dream.

• Powerful Lead Performance: Josefin Neldén's portrayal of Sally Bauer is highly praised.

• Insightful Look at Historical and Social Context: The film offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by women in the late 1930s.

• Acclaimed Director's Work: See the latest feature film from the talented Frida Kempff.

• Award-Nominated Film: The film has received recognition for its quality, particularly in Sweden.

Why to Watch Movie:

• If You Enjoy Biographical Dramas: Experience a compelling film based on the life of an extraordinary individual.

• Interested in Stories About Overcoming Adversity: Be inspired by Sally Bauer's determination and resilience.

• For Films with Strong Female Protagonists: Watch a story centered on a complex and strong-willed woman.

• Appreciate Period Dramas: Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the late 1930s.

• Interested in World Cinema: See a well-regarded film from Sweden with international co-production.

What Movie Trend film is Following: Biographical Sports Drama / Films Celebrating Female Athletes: The film aligns with the trend of biographical films that focus on the lives and achievements of athletes, particularly highlighting the stories of female athletes who overcame significant barriers. It also fits within period dramas that shed light on historical figures and societal norms of a specific era.

What Big Social Trend is Following: Highlighting Women's History and Achievements: The film contributes to the broader social trend of recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of women throughout history, particularly those whose stories have been overlooked, and examining the societal challenges they faced. It also resonates with ongoing conversations about gender equality and overcoming limitations.

Final Verdict: "The Swedish Torpedo (2024)" is an affecting and inspiring biographical sports drama that powerfully brings the story of Swedish swimmer Sally Bauer to the screen. Frida Kempff's direction, combined with a mesmerizing performance from Josefin Neldén, captures Bauer's remarkable tenacity and the significant obstacles she faced as a single mother pursuing an ambitious athletic dream in the late 1930s. The film is a poignant exploration of resilience, societal expectations, and the unwavering pursuit of a goal against the backdrop of a world on the brink of war. With its strong critical reception, multiple award nominations in Sweden, and a compelling true story at its heart, "The Swedish Torpedo" is a highly recommended watch for audiences who appreciate well-crafted historical dramas and inspiring tales of female strength and determination.

Recommendations for Film Makers:

• Seek Out and Tell Overlooked True Stories: The film's success highlights the potential in finding compelling biographical subjects whose stories have not been widely told.

• Invest in Strong Lead Performances: The praise for Josefin Neldén underscores the crucial role of a powerful central performance in a biographical film.

• Use Historical Context to Deepen Thematic Exploration: The film effectively uses the pre-WWII setting to enhance the themes of urgency and overcoming adversity.

• Portray Complex Characters with Nuance: Showcasing the various facets of a historical figure, including their struggles and imperfections, can create a more relatable and impactful portrayal.

Recommendations for Movie Industry:

• Support Films Celebrating Women's History and Achievements: Recognize the importance and audience interest in films that highlight the accomplishments of women throughout history.

• Champion Biographical Dramas with a Unique Focus: Encourage films that tell the stories of individuals outside of the most commonly known figures.

• Promote Films from Diverse International Voices: Support and distribute films from various countries, offering audiences a wider range of cultural perspectives and cinematic styles.

• Recognize the Value of Period Dramas with Relevant Contemporary Themes: Highlight how historical films can still resonate with current social conversations and issues.