At 17 he topped the Swedish charts with his self-titled debut album. At 18 he placed third at Melodifestivalen behind Loreen and Danny Saucedo. And now, at the ripe age of 22, Ulrik Munther is making a splash on the big screen, starring in the feature length film “The Here After”.
The movie has had a staggered release around the world, debuting in Sweden last November and in the UK this March. It will have its last international release in the Netherlands on July 28.
Directed by Magnus von Horn, the film is a psychological portrait of a juvenile offender attempting to integrate back into society. It captures the trauma of the past and the price of forgiveness — carried convincingly by the “Tell The World I’m Here” singer.
On returning home, John (Ulrik) reunites with his younger brother Filip and his protective father (Mats Blomgren). He initially works on the family farm in between bouts of clay pigeon shooting, TV watching and heated exchanges at the dinner table. However the real action and looming hostility comes from his interactions with former school mates. From here the complexity of John’s crime reveals itself in numerous backstories. His presence in the school brings out the worst in those around him. The crime soon becomes his epitaph rather than his mistake, one born out of a fit of circumstantial rage as he aptly portrays midway through the film.
He doesn’t smile until he enters a relationship with Malin, a girl aware of his past but crucially one who’s willing to forgive him. That said, the contempt from his classmates puts him and his loved ones in danger. Chaos ensues.
Ulrik’s performance is stellar. His enigmatic look conveys both mischief and innocence, and his deliberate passivity gives his performance power and drive. He may be known primarily as a singer, but he reveals more through his passive expression and loaded gaze than the words from his mouth.
Have you seen the film? And if so what did you think of Ulrik’s performance? Should he make another go at Melodifestivalen — or just stick with acting? Let us know in the comments box below!
Just watched the film and WOW ulrik was amazing. What a great film I’m excited to see more from him in the acting world