Reviews

• “To Cook a Bear has become truly excellent television – faithful to the novel in both plot and atmosphere. /…/ This is a western set in the marshlands of northern Sweden. /…/ It has become a miniseries that exudes quality in every aspect, with a narrative free of dull moments and actors who fully immerse themselves in their roles. /…/ To Cook a Bear is intense, in its passion, religious fervor, and graphic violence. It holds nothing back, while also showcasing a masterful command of subtlety. On top of that, it remains suspenseful, even for those familiar with the novel. This is burlesque and intelligent entertainment.”

• “The perfect binge for Midsomer Murders fans. /…/ The perfect blend of period and crime drama.”

• “It’s a fascinating amalgamation of the classic detective story, historical drama, murder mystery and a Western. Plunging viewers into a world of superstitions, prejudices, religion and death, the series draws striking parallels to contemporary society. /…/ To Cook a Bear boasts stellar performances, intrigue and a striking sense of time and place. Gustaf Skarsgård brings yet another intricate, nuanced character to the screen, whilst director Trygve Allister Diesen revels in plunging his viewers into a community wrapped in secrets. This is a story that is truly engrossing as it unravels, making attempts to resist the temptation to stick on another episode utterly futile. ”

• “The cinematography is without a doubt extraordinary. /…/ A remarkable achievement – a Nordic production that dares to trust its audience, understanding that mystery is built as much through silence as through words.”

• “To Cook a Bear quickly proves to be a thriller that is gripping from beginning to end.”

• “A lavish adaptation with stunning cinematography and an entertaining masquerade. /…/ Swedish screenwriter Jesper Harrie and Norwegian crime director Trygve Allister Diesen have, with just a few changes, created an empathetic portrayal of both the harsh inner and outer landscapes of northernmost Sweden in the 1850s. /…/ The attention to detail reaches every corner of the production, and the creators also dare to take bold aesthetic turns.”

• “I’m delighted. I like how director Trygve Allister Diesen clearly frames and, through visuals, explains what kind of series To Cook a Bear is. /…/ Faith, science, and logic are brought face to face with human evil. The result is captivating.”

• “Mikael Niemi’s To Cook a Bear has become a juicy, gritty, and stylish northern Swedish western that dares – and succeeds – in doing something truly different. /…/ Well played by screenwriter Jesper Harrie, director Trygve Allister Diesen, and everyone else involved in this bold, delicious, and unique Nordic production.”