Director: Tova Magnusson
Running Time: 86 mins
Certificate: 15
Release Date: Septermber 24th 2012
Political leader David Holst (Bjorn Kjellman) believes he’s on the verge of becoming Sweden’s Prime Minister, but when thing go slightly wrong at the polls and his coalition can’t quite get enough seats to make him the head of country, he’s thrown into a bit of a funk. The setback at the polls causes him to re-evaluate his life, his outlook and his political future.
He then meets Martin (Eric Ericson), a man actively involved on the other side of the political spectrum, but who he feels a connection to. After a night of drink and discussion about the best direction for Sweden, Martin kisses David, and while the latter doesn’t think he’s gay, he doesn’t resist either. As David comes to a new realisation about his sexuality, he only sees obstacles ahead, not least his marriage and the reaction of his political backers. Can Martin and David’s romance withstand this?
Sweet and funny, Four More Years is a witty rom com that proves a pleasant way to spend 90 minutes. Early on I was slightly worried it was going to get bogged down in Swedish politics and how their system of coalitions and alliances work, but thankfully that soon takes a backseat to the story of David and Martin. What evolves is a nice, gentle, romantic comedy, with a pretty standard plot – couple meet, fall in love, obstacles are thrown in their way but can they overcome them?
Although many gay-themed movies about married men who fall for a guy seem like apologia for cheating, this one manages to get around that. Admittedly, it does give itself a get out jail free card on this score, but it works, partly because it’s done well and partly because at least David has the decency to feel some angst over what he’s doing beforehand.
It also helps that the relationship between David and Martin really seems to bring something special to each other’s lives, so it’s difficult not to root for them, despite their personal and political differences. It may not be a movie that’s going to change the world, but for 90 minutes it’s an entertaining, often funny and romantic ride.
Overall Verdict: A well made, funny and rather sweet Swedish rom-com, which may have a pretty standard plot, but certainly makes for an entertaining watch.
Reviewer: Tim Isaac
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