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Contains strong violence and one use of very strong language
Sticks and stones break more than bones in this Swedish tale of playground bullying. Coming on like a cross between Dead Poet's Society and Man On Fire, Evil is the story of Erik Ponti (Andreas Wilson), a misfit who's shipped off to a posh boarding school in the 50s where a school council of bullying seniors dish out rough justice to any pupils who step out of line. Richly shot and beautifully acted, it's only let down by its predictable plotting.
Leading the aristocratic prefects is cravat-wearing bully Silverhielm (Gustaf Skasgård), who takes an instant dislike to Erik's bullet-headed crop and striking good looks. Push quickly comes to shove and the violence escalates: detentions are given, slop buckets are emptied over beds, and Erik's forced to endure a silent, protracted beating. If he fights back he'll be expelled, but when Erik's nerdy roommate Pierre (Henrik Lundström) becomes the focus of the bullies' attention, it's obvious that something's got to give.
"IT'S ASSURED FILMMAKING"
Making the most out of the class warfare elements of Jan Guillou's autobiographical novel, Evil also sets up a fierce metaphorical battle against fascist oppression in 50s Sweden. Evoking the period effortlessly through Charlie Parker jazz records and pointed discussions about Rebel Without A Cause, director Mikael Håfström leads us up to the inevitable conclusion well, but can't quite free himself from the burden of expectation as Erik finally snaps and takes his revenge. Still, it's assured filmmaking and proof that school isn't always the best days of your life.
In Swedish and Finnish with English subtitles.
