Mikael Marcimain's An Honest Life, written by Linn Gottfridsson from Joakim Zander's novel, has definite style and considerably less substance.
Law student Simon, played by Simon Lööf, drifts through university, parties and wealthy friendships in Lund. At a demonstration he meets the mysterious Max, played by Nora Rios, and enters an underground group that robs the rich. The actions present themselves as political statements, but feel more like an egocentric game.
Simon remains strangely passive throughout. He watches, drifts and rarely responds. That emptiness may be intended as a study of a directionless generation, but it creates little suspense. There is no convincing development or lasting revelation. Simon remains a spectator in his own life.
Atmosphere is the film's achievement. Joe Maples captures Lund in cool, stylized light. The polished images almost resemble advertising, while classical music and rap provide interesting contrasts. Visually, the work is strong.
The ideas stay near the surface. Max's group feels more like an outfit than a movement. Its motives are vague and its actions lack a coherent direction. The early political suggestion disappears into poses and hints rather than developing into risk, consequence or internal conflict.
Rios brings tension to Max, but the character remains closer to an idea than a person. Her relationship with Simon develops abruptly without emotional depth. The supporting cast is largely pale.
The film attempts class criticism, generational portrait, thriller and romance without completing any of them. Attractive individual pieces never form a clear whole. Viewers who enjoy visual atmosphere and a slow pace may find some appeal, but those seeking development and emotional substance are likely to be disappointed. I give An Honest Life 2 out of 5 stars. Visually strong, narratively weak.