The Wedding Photographer

Sweden’s The Wedding Photographer (Bröllopsfotografen) may be the latest film to reference the matrimonial ceremony in its moniker, however the charming comedy is far removed from other betrothal fare. With more in common with The Wedding Singer than The Wedding Planner, Ulf Malmros’ (God Save the King) sixth feature focuses on the efforts of a shutterbug keen to break into the profession, yet hampered by his small town past.

When we first meet Robin (Björn Starrin, Smala Sussie), taking photos is his obsession but he's yet to turn his hobby into paid work. An encounter with former TV star Jonny Björk (Kjell Bergqvist, Gangster) helps place him on the right path, with the pair trading services. Asked by Jonny to photograph a friend’s wedding in Stockholm, Robin impresses the bride’s similarly snap-happy sister (Tuva Novotny, Eat Pray Love) and her wealthy father (Johannes Brost, Avalon). Alas, his attempts to win favour with – and therefore funding from – the upper classes prove more difficult than imagined, with his sense of self thrown off balance.

Juxtaposing Robin’s modest origins with the luxurious lifestyle he covets, The Wedding Photographer offers a spirited and sweet examination of identity. In his quest for success, he is all too eager to abandon his former ways, however his adopted persona – respectable haircut and wardrobe changes included – is far from an easy fit. Accordingly, the film crafts a statement on acceptance, exploring its interplay with ambition. Although simplified for comedic purposes, the apt and affable nature of the message ensures it resounds with authenticity.

At the centre sits an adept performance from Starrin, in his third consecutive collaboration with the writer/director. Evolving from optimistic out-of-towner to determined city dweller, he infuses the role with the necessary nuance to convey the uncertainty of the conflicted character. He surprises amidst an assortment of unconventional offsiders, particularly in scenes with the opposing Bergqvist. Indeed, the duo represents differing sides of the same dilemma, contrasted with unexpected pathos and purpose.

Against a picturesque backdrop that samples Swedish modernity and tradition, the feature engages and entertains. Whilst Malmros’ script and direction take a leisurely approach, both the story and staging unravel with style and pace. As a result, The Wedding Photographer proves wise and witty whilst telling a universal tale. And with only two weddings on screen, it eschews the genre intimated by its title in favour of amusing insights.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

The Wedding Photographer
Director: Ulf Malmros
Sweden, 2009, 113 min
Unclassified 18+

Screening as part of the Windows on Europe Film Festival
23–26 February: Brisbane Dendy Cinemas
2–8 March: Sydney Dendy Cinemas