What Is the Story About?
Running away from a failed robbery attempt, an amateur robber enters an apartment that is for sale. A hostage crisis arises when the robber realizes that there are many people inside.
Jack (Alfred Svensson) and Jim surround the parameter and diffuse the situation eventually. However, they cannot catch the robber, who has vanished from the apartment? Finding out the mystery and backstories of various people held hostages at that time forms Anxious People’s core plot.
Performances?
Alfred Svensson gives a sincere and earnest performance as a Jack. The rigid attitude and worldview, in general, are portrayed with clinical ease and naturally despite his highly innocent-looking babyface. Only some dramatic moments look rehearsed and ‘acted’.
The best moments to shine as an actor come towards the end for Alfred Svensson. The emotional connection works well, and he does it effectively.
Analysis
Felix Herngren directs Anxious People, which is based on a book of the same name. It is basically a feel-good drama, but the package is that of an investigative thriller.
The entire opening episode is a setup for the investigative drama to take. It is well done and the main reason why anyone would like to continue with the series in the first place.
The vanishing of a robber from a closed apartment surrounded by the police is instantly attention-grabbing. One would definitely want to watch the rest to know the revelation. Unfortunately, what happens next pours water on expectations.
The series takes a predictable dramatic turn involving the various hostages. Each one comes with a predictable issue which we have seen many times. However, the good thing is the writing is excellent, and the drama is not lengthy.
The screenplay neatly mixes the backstories and present and clears confusion one after other adding little bits of intrigue in the process. They are small and in tune with the overall tone and narrative. But, as things progress in a similar fashion, it starts to become a little formulaic.
Finally, after all the build-up, it is all about the end. The ‘suspense’ is over even before the final episode is done. What we are left with is drama, and Anxious People delivers on that score in the climax. It generates a feel-good, coming of age vibe.
Overall, Anxious People has a solid beginning and ending. The portions in between drag, but the progress is smooth. It makes the Swedish series a passable watch if one likes the genres’ mixture and doesn’t mind the slow pace.
Other Artists?
An eclectic set of actors are part of the series. They are all well cast and deliver in their respective roles. Dan Ekborg as the father and senior cop, delivers on both counts. Lottie Ejebrant is lovely with a neat emotional arc. Per Anderson is sensational and instantly impresses. It is the same with everyone else, and each gets highlighted one by one as individual episodes are dedicated to them.
Music and Other Departments?
The music by Adam Norden is superb. It works well during emotional or high dramatic moments. The cinematography by Viktor Davidsson is nice. It is understated and less showy. The editing could have been a little bit better. The writing is lovely, as mentioned previously.
Highlights?
Casting
Beginning
End
Drawbacks?
Slow Pace
Repetitive Sequences
Lengthy
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes, In Parts
Will You Recommend It?
Yes, But With Reservations
Anxious People Series Review by Binged Bureau