Torment (1944)

In the shadowy corridors of academia, Jan-Erik Widgren, a high-school senior and an idealist at heart, stands in stark contrast to his cynical best friend, a follower of Strindberg's and Nietzsche's pessimistic perspectives on women. Unlike his friend, Jan-Erik yearns for a pure, chaste love. His quest for romance starts on a twisted path when he stumbles upon a girl, Berta, lost in a drunken haze one fateful night. As they weave a complicated web of passion, he remains oblivious that Berta is already entangled with another man - a man who she claims brings her nothing but torment. Meanwhile, in the fortress of their school, a tyrant looms. Known as Caligula, the sadistic Latin teacher casts a shadow of fear that chills both the students and faculty alike. His oppressive presence looms heavy on Jan-Erik, threatening to lead him to academic ruin. As Jan-Erik's love story grows murkier, he fails to realize that the tormentor Berta speaks of and his own academic tormentor are one and the same. "Torment (1944)" is a compelling exploration of youthful idealism colliding with cruel reality, rife with deceit, passion, and a haunting fear that clings like a cold mist. Its narrative threads intertwine to create a chilling tapestry of love, fear, and the merciless grip of a sadist hiding in plain sight.

Torment is a drama movie featuring Stig Järrel and directed by Alf Sjöberg.

Torment is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.