Kejsaren

Painter and poet Jösta Hagelbäck takes on Birgitta Trotzigs novel "Sjukdomen" (The Disease). A true challenge. This is Jöstas debut as a filmmaker. "Kejsaren" is a minor masterpiece of kleinkunst, a fresco brought to life by a dynamic and hardworking ensemble and production team. Anders Åberg's interpretation of Elje "Jesaja" Ström, is remarkable, bold and unforgettable. "Kejsaren" tells the story of a mentally handicapped and bullied young man. Loved by his father. Longing for his mother. Living in the south of Sweden. Farm country. Working the fields. I find this unique fresco of film related in spirit and passion to the works of Herzog, Fassbinder, Bergman and Pasolini. Perhaps even Conrad Rooks "Chappaqua". Jösta Hagelbäck never came close to this cornerstone of Swedish cinema.