Something Must Break

Ester Martin Bergsmark's 2014 Swedish film follows the relationship between Sebastian and Andreas in Stockholm. Sebastian feels himself to be a woman and begins using the name Ellie; Andreas says he is not gay, and that contradiction keeps the relationship taut. The film's strength is building the question of identity as something lived rather than explained: Ellie's transition is not recounted, it is experienced. Bergsmark works with a handheld camera and natural light; the city sequences are almost documentary. Saga Becker's performance is at the centre and won a major award in Sweden. The narrative is scattered and the scenes of self-harm are harsh. Who it's for: viewers interested in Nordic independent cinema and trans narratives. Who it's not for: anyone avoiding self-harm and sexual content, or wanting an orderly story.