Funny Show, but has some wrong stereotypes

terrancegrier

The show is funny and reflects the dry sense of humor that many Swedes have, but if you're using this show to learn about Swedish people it's not accurate.

The one thing the show got right is that pretty much all Swedes (except for some elderly people) speak perfect English with no accent. This is because it's taught early in school. Swedes also have a sort of wry sense of humor and are not really into slap-stick.

While individualism and personal space are very important in Swedish culture, the show wrongly portrays Swedes as cold and unfriendly. The episode where Poehler gets stuck in the elevator and nobody would help him would not happen and Swedes don't mind if you stop them on the street and ask for help. They are wonderful, friendly and warm people, but definitely more laid back than Americans and less likely to approach strangers.

The show is very funny and the main characters, Bruce, Emma & Lena are very funny. I like that the show has mostly Swedish actors, as it should and it's great to see a different cultural perspective, even if it's not entirely accurate. I hope the show is not canceled.

score 8/10

terrancegrier 12 July 2016

Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw3503294/