Like the working-class men of The Full Monty, the Swedes in The Swimsuit Issue find themselves with a unique opportunity. As the film begins, divorced and unemployed journalist Fredrik (Jonas Inde) is left in charge of his teenage daughter Sara (Amanda Davin), a synchronized swimmer. Insecure and competitive, Fredrik plays floorball (an indoor game similar to hockey) as a hobby. When his club lands in hot water for throwing a bachelor party at the pool, they lose their practice space--but a video of their jokey attempt at water ballet proves to be a hit. Soon they've got a gig, so they secure swimsuits and put together a routine—but have no idea what they're doing. On their own, the men aren't good enough to drum up more business, so Fredrik installs Sara as coach, even though he previously dismissed “synchro” as something less than a sport. Under her tutelage, Fredrik changes his mind, and encourages his teammates to compete in Berlin. Numerous obstacles stand in their way—ranging from skepticism to physical challenges--but the guys give it their all, gaining newfound confidence along the way. Originality may not be The Swimsuit Issue's greatest virtue, but director Måns Herngren combines comedy and drama with grace in this crowd-pleaser. Recommended. (K. Fennessy)
The Swimsuit Issue
New Video, 100 min., in Swedish w/English subtitles, not rated, DVD: $24.95, Mar. 29 Volume 26, Issue 3
The Swimsuit Issue
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