Miss Kicki

Miss Kicki is a hard-hitting drama from Swedish filmmaker Hakon Liu that tells the story of a woman struggling to come to terms with her past, present and future. The film explores themes of identity, family and belonging as it follows the journey of its titular character, a free-spirited woman in her forties who has spent her life running from her problems.

Pernilla August stars as Kicki, a restless woman who has been living in Taiwan with her boyfriend for several years. However, when she receives a phone call from her estranged husband in Sweden, asking her to come home and sort out some unfinished business, she reluctantly agrees to take a trip back to her home country.

Upon arriving in Sweden, Kicki is reunited with her troubled son Viktor (Ludwig Palmell), who she has not seen in several years. Viktor is struggling with his own issues, including a drug addiction and a troubled relationship with his father. Despite their estrangement, Kicki is determined to help Viktor get back on his feet and make amends for her past mistakes.

As the two of them spend time together, Viktor begins to open up to Kicki about his struggles and the pain he has been carrying for years. Kicki, in turn, begins to confront her own demons and the mistakes she has made in her life. Together, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing that will change both of their lives forever.

The film is shot in a unique style that blends gritty realism with dreamlike imagery to create a haunting atmosphere that perfectly captures the emotional intensity of the story. The cinematography is stunning, with lush landscapes and stark, minimalist interiors providing a striking visual contrast.

Pernilla August gives a standout performance as Kicki, portraying her character's complex mixture of strength and vulnerability with astonishing grace and subtlety. Ludwig Palmell is equally impressive as Viktor, bringing a raw, intense energy to his portrayal of a deeply troubled young man.

River Huang also deserves special mention for his supporting turn as Kicki's boyfriend in Taiwan. Despite having limited screen time, Huang brings a quiet intensity to his role that adds an intriguing layer of complexity to the film's central relationship.

Overall, Miss Kicki is a powerful and moving drama that explores the universal themes of family, identity and the search for meaning in life. Its haunting imagery and unforgettable performances make it a must-see for fans of art-house cinema and Swedish drama.