A Nearly Normal Family
A series review of "A Nearly Normal Family"
The Swedish limited series A Nearly Normal Family, which debuted in late 2023, stands out as a dark and introspective story about morals and family. The show, which is based on the highly regarded novel by M.T. Edvardsson, immerses viewers in the lives of the Sandell family, whose seemingly perfect life falls apart when their teenage daughter, Stella, is charged with murder. What follows is a complex story that explores the extent and price we are ready to pay to keep the people we care about safe.
The Sandell family—Adam, a devout pastor; Ulrika, a sharp and driven prosecutor; and Stella, their independent 19-year-old daughter—is at the center of the narrative. When Stella is named as the main suspect in the murder of 32-year-old businessman Christoffer "Chris" Olsen, their entire existence is turned upside down. Long-kept truths come to light as the investigation moves further, making every family member rethink their ethics, their commitment to one another, and the fundamentals of their relationship.
The show creates a rich tapestry of feelings and viewpoints by switching between the three Sandell family members. Adam's narrative is one of faith being put to the ultimate test as he tries to balance his religious principles with his instinctive need to keep his daughter safe. Ulrika's journey is equally terrifying since she must confront the unachievable challenge of combining her maternal desires with her professional principles. Stella, on the other hand, is a very captivating heroine whose brave appearance conceals her weaknesses and hardships.
A Nearly Normal Family's powerful writing and smart pace are what makes it so captivating. By gradually exposing the characters' humanity as well as their imperfections, the show takes its time. The show focuses on the messy, painful realities that are at the heart of family dynamics rather than offering simple solutions or quick solutions. The harsh scenery and subdued colors of the Swedish countryside provide the ideal setting for this intensely personal story.