Alena

Based on a graphic novel by Kim W. Andersson, Daniel di Grado's film—part psychological thriller, part horror movie—inevitably invites comparisons to Stephen King's Carrie. The title character, played by Amalia Holm, is a student from the local public high school who arrives at a posh girls' academy after suffering a terrible traumatic experience that she cannot talk about—even with the therapist who arranged her transfer. Once there, she is bullied by rich mean girl Filippa (Molly Nutley), who despises Alena's low-class background and is jealous of her skill on the lacrosse field, where until now Filippa has been the dominant player. Although befriended by sympathetic classmate Fabienne (Felice Jankel), Alena's real protector is Josefin (Rebecka Nyman), her best friend from public school, who mysteriously appears whenever she is in trouble and deals forcefully with her tormentors. Josefin reacts badly, however, to Alena's new friendship with Fabienne. Di Grado is a stylish filmmaker, but secrets of Alena's past that are meant to come as shocking surprises will be obvious to most viewers long before they are revealed, and Nutley's one-note villainy is so over-the-top that it often seems unintentionally comic rather than frightening. Still, this should be considered a strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek)