Let Go (2024) Movie Review – A Raw Family Drama
Let Go (original title: Släpp taget) is the latest Swedish family drama directed, written, and led by Josephine Bornebusch. The film sheds light on the messy, authentic side of family life, tackling themes of marital struggle, emotional burnout, and the invisible labor that often falls on women. Bornebusch’s depiction of a jaded mother on the brink of collapse, holding her family together for the sake of her teenage daughter’s pole-dancing competition, will resonate with viewers who appreciate films that don’t shy away from portraying real-life complexities.
The Storyline: Navigating a Family’s Breaking Point
In Let Go, we follow Stella (Josephine Bornebusch), a devoted mother and the glue of her family, who reluctantly agrees to a family trip for her teenage daughter Anna’s (Sigrid Johnson) pole-dancing competition. Just as they embark on the journey, Stella’s husband Gustav (Pål Sverre Hagen) drops the bombshell of wanting a divorce, putting an already strained family relationship to the test.
As they travel together, emotions boil over. Gustav’s nonchalant attitude toward family responsibilities and Anna’s simmering resentment create a tinderbox of tension. Each family member grapples with personal frustrations: Gustav is torn between his duty and his desire for freedom, Anna is a young adult yearning for independence, and Manne, their youngest son, is a clumsy child with a serious food allergy, adding yet another layer of anxiety to the trip.
Bornebusch’s portrayal of Stella’s efforts to hold the family together reveals the silent sacrifices mothers often make. The family’s journey to Skåne for Anna’s competition becomes a catalyst for unresolved issues to surface, showing how each family member’s expectations and resentments affect the family dynamic.
The Performances: Emotional Depth from a Talented Cast
One of Let Go’s strongest aspects is the emotionally charged performances. Bornebusch, who wears multiple hats as writer, director, and lead actress, delivers a raw and nuanced portrayal of a mother stretched to her limits. Her frustration is palpable as she navigates her family’s needs with an exasperating sense of duty and commitment, bringing a relatable edge to Stella’s character. Pål Sverre Hagen as Gustav is maddeningly passive but evolves over the course of the film, showing hints of remorse and maturity as the story unfolds.
Sigrid Johnson’s portrayal of Anna captures the awkwardness and defiance of adolescence, making her the film’s most complex character. Her anger toward her parents feels real, and her desire for validation outside the family unit will resonate with younger viewers. Olle Tikkakoski’s portrayal of Manne is equally endearing, making him a vulnerable and lovable presence amidst the turmoil.
Themes and Cinematic Style: A Deep Dive into Family Dynamics
Let Go stands out for its delicate balance of humor and heartbreak. Through expertly paced storytelling, Bornebusch examines the unglamorous realities of parenthood and marriage. From the logistical nightmares of family trips to the small, everyday arguments that reveal deeper resentments, the film’s narrative feels authentic and grounded. The film’s visual storytelling enhances this authenticity, with a muted color palette that captures the mundane yet chaotic beauty of family life.
Bornebusch’s writing shines in the layered, vulnerable conversations between Stella and Gustav, who eventually confront their roles in the disintegration of their marriage. While the film explores the pressure on women to hold families together, it also critiques the societal expectations placed on men and women within a family structure. Stella’s character challenges these norms by subtly asking whether women should bear the sole responsibility of maintaining familial harmony.
A Heartfelt Yet Controversial Twist
In a surprising third act, the film shifts its tone, introducing a dramatic twist that amplifies the story’s emotional impact. While some viewers may find the twist a powerful commentary on the sacrifices of parenthood, others may feel it detracts from the realism that defines much of the film. This narrative choice may feel divisive, yet it leaves an indelible mark on viewers by showing the consequences of unspoken issues left unresolved.
Streaming Availability: Where to Watch Let Go Online
Let Go (2024) is streaming exclusively on Netflix in the United States. Currently, Netflix is the only streaming service offering this film, making it accessible to subscribers across the U.S. If you’re looking for a raw, dramatic portrayal of modern family life, Let Go is a must-watch for fans of foreign dramas that tug at the heartstrings.
Final Verdict: A Poignant Drama That Captures Life’s Imperfections
Let Go is not an easy film to watch, and it doesn’t aim to be. This is a family drama that will challenge you to reflect on the weight of unspoken emotions and the hidden struggles within every family. Josephine Bornebusch’s realistic portrayal of a fractured family on the verge of collapse will resonate with anyone who’s grappled with the complexities of family dynamics.
The film’s realistic dialogue, relatable characters, and thoughtful pacing make Let Go a compelling choice for viewers seeking something deeper than typical Hollywood drama. However, be prepared for an emotionally heavy journey that may prompt you to reach out to loved ones after the credits roll.
Ready for a heartfelt exploration of family life? Stream Let Go on Netflix today and immerse yourself in a powerful narrative that will leave you reflecting long after the final scene. Don’t miss this raw and intimate story of a family navigating love, resentment, and forgiveness.
