Koka björn (To Cook a Bear) premiered October 15 on Disney+ and has received outstanding reviews. Koka Björn is based on Mikael Niemi’s bestselling novel of the same name, and is directed by Trygve Allister Diesen, with a script by Jesper Harrie.
“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.”
★★★★
– Aftonbladet, Sweden
“A lavish adaptation with stunning cinematography. /…/ 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.”
★★★★
– DN, Sweden
To Cook a Bear has become truly excellent television. /…/ 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.
– Dagens Næringsliv, Norway
“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.”
★★★★
– Expressen
, Sweden
“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.”
★★★★
– Filmtopp, Sweden
“To Cook a Bear quickly proves to be a thriller that is gripping from beginning to end.”
★★★★
– Moviezine, Sweden