Netflix’s latest addition to its Swedish drama roster, “A Part of You,” stars Felicia Truedsson and Edvin Ryding. Directed by Sigge Eklund and written by Michaela Hamilton, this film dives deep into the emotional turmoil of its characters while maintaining a stark sense of realism.
An Honest Look at Teen Drama
“A Part of You” presents itself as a straightforward drama without any pretensions. It adheres to the realistic aesthetic familiar to recent Swedish productions on Netflix, focusing on authentic character portrayals and dramatic themes. The film takes its characters’ struggles seriously, delivering a grounded and believable narrative.
However, this commitment to realism comes at a cost. Stylistically, the film resembles a made-for-television movie, and thematically, it leans towards moralistic storytelling. It suggests that straying from societal and parental expectations inevitably leads to trouble—a premise the film neither deeply examines nor robustly challenges. Despite this, Felicia Truedsson delivers a compelling performance, making the most of her role in a story that leaves much to be desired in terms of aesthetic innovation.
Plot Summary
Agnes is grappling with the loss of her sister, who died in a car accident under the influence of alcohol. In her grief, Agnes begins to adopt her sister’s behaviors, wearing her clothes and starting to drink. This descent into her sister’s lifestyle is further complicated as she embarks on a romantic relationship with Noel.
A Realistic Yet Uninspired TV Movie
“A Part of You” is transparent about its intentions. It’s a sincere portrayal of teenage drama, unembellished by false comedic elements. The film takes its time unfolding Agnes’s story, delving into character development without forcing dramatic situations or pacing. Its slow rhythm and focus on naturalistic storytelling may be appreciated by some, but it doesn’t offer much in terms of visual or narrative excitement.
The film’s achievement lies in its character development, particularly in its realistic depiction of Agnes and the reconstruction of her sister’s persona. Yet, the moralistic undertone is pervasive, justified by the film’s thematic choices and character creation. “A Part of You” doesn’t shy away from its didactic intent, offering a clear moral stance throughout.
The Standout Performance: Felicia Truedsson
Felicia Truedsson, known from Netflix’s “The Abyss” (2024) and other series, leads the cast with a notable performance. She is joined by Edvin Ryding, the star of “Young Royals” (2021-2024), whose presence adds likely audience appeal. Truedsson navigates the complex introspection required for her role with credibility, making the most of this opportunity to showcase her talents.
While “A Part of You” might not be the pinnacle of her career, it serves as a significant platform for her to shine. She demonstrates talent, depth, and a distinctive screen presence, carrying the weight of the film with grace. It’s clear that Truedsson is a young actress to watch.
Our Take
“A Part of You” doesn’t seduce, astonish, or ignite passion. It’s a realistic portrayal of a personal drama that falls short of deeply moving the audience, both cinematically and narratively. However, it highlights the impressive talent of Felicia Truedsson, who is bound to make waves in the industry.
