Made in 1976, but set in the 1950s, the dramedy Sven Klang’s Combo hooks the viewer with the depiction of the interpersonal tensions between a group of Swedish small-town musicians. The internal dynamics of the dance music band led by the authoritarian Sven Klang are thrown topsy-turvy, when the talented saxophone player Lasse (actor-musician Christer Boustedt) joins the quintet. The tricky juxtaposition of commercial art and self-sufficient art is brought into discussion. And that’s just the overture!
Stellan Olsson‘s film is based on the play by the Musikteatergruppen Oktober, and a part of the scenes in the black-and-white film are literally set on stage. Sven Klang’s Combo offer musical treats for jazz fans, while bringing in plenty to marvel at with its the laconic and darkly humorous depiction of human relationships and destinies. (Pinja Mustajoki) (Pinja Mustajoki)
Language: Swedish, subtitles: English