How to learn Swedish

Immerse yourself in the Swedish language through engaging TV series - one of the most enjoyable ways to learn through comprehensible input.

Bron/Broen

Translating to 'The Bridge' in English, Bron/Broen is a Scandinavian crime drama television series that aired from 2011 to 2018. The series starts with the discovery of a body on the Øresund Bridge, connecting Sweden and Denmark, hence the dual-language title. It follows Swedish detective Saga Norén and her Danish partners Martin Rohde and Henrik Sabroe as they investigate complex and challenging cases. Bron/Broen has been critically acclaimed for its intricate plotting and character development, particularly the portrayal of Saga Norén, who has been interpreted as representing autism spectrum traits. The show has had a significant cultural impact, inspiring a number of international remakes, such as 'The Bridge' in the US/Mexico and 'The Tunnel' in the UK/France.

Wallander

Based on the novels by Henning Mankell, 'Wallander' is a crime drama following the eponymous Kurt Wallander, a detective in the town of Ystad. The series ran from 2005 to 2013 and is known for its dark tone and complex depiction of its main character. Wallander has been praised for its writing, acting, and its realistic portrayal of Sweden. It has been exported to over 40 countries and has had a significant impact, influencing the tone and style of many subsequent crime dramas.

Real Humans

Originally titled 'Äkta människor', which translates to 'Real Humans', this science fiction drama aired from 2012 to 2014. The series explores a world where humanoid robots, known as 'hubots', are common household and service workers. The plot delves into the moral, social, and legal implications of this scenario. Real Humans has been critically acclaimed for its thought-provoking storytelling and has spurred international remakes, such as the British series 'Humans'.

Solsidan

'Solsidan', translating to 'The Sunny Side', is a Swedish comedy-drama series that aired from 2010 to 2015, and then again in 2020. It follows a group of friends living in an affluent part of Stockholm, dealing with various life situations and challenges. The show has been praised for its humor, relatable characters, and its portrayal of Swedish middle-class life. Solsidan has been very popular in Sweden and Finland, achieving high ratings and winning several awards.

Caliphate

'Kalifat' or 'Caliphate' is a Swedish thriller series that premiered in 2020. The plot revolves around five young women whose lives become interwoven with the activities of ISIS. The series explores themes of radicalization, terrorism, and identity, and it has been lauded for its storytelling and performances. Despite some controversy, 'Caliphate' has been a significant series in Sweden, sparking important conversations about these issues.

Quicksand

'Störst av allt' or 'Quicksand' is a crime drama series that premiered in 2019. Based on the 2016 novel by Malin Persson Giolito, the series follows a student named Maja who is accused of a school shooting. The narrative alternates between the trial and the events leading up to the shooting. 'Quicksand' has been praised for its writing, performances, and its exploration of class and social issues in Sweden. It was Netflix's first Swedish original series and has gained international recognition.

Jordskott

'Jordskott' is a Swedish crime drama with supernatural elements that aired from 2015 to 2017. The plot revolves around detective Eva Thörnblad, who returns to her hometown seven years after her daughter's disappearance and begins to investigate a connection to a similar case. The series stands out for its blend of crime and supernatural elements, creating a unique and atmospheric tone. 'Jordskott' has been critically acclaimed and has achieved international distribution.