The film Het premiered on October 2, 1944 - a milestone in Swedish film history.

On October 2, 1944, the Swedish film Hets premiered – a psychological drama that became a milestone in Swedish film history.

The film takes place in a high school and depicts the pressure and fear students experience under authoritarian leadership.

The most memorable role is played by Stig Järrel , who portrays the feared Latin lecturer "Caligula". His character is stern, mocking and psychologically manipulative, and has become an icon for terrifying teacher characters in Swedish film.

Hets was written by the then young screenwriter Ingmar Bergman , who later became one of the world's most acclaimed directors. The film was directed by the established theater and film director Alf Sjöberg. The film was shot in the summer of 1944 at Filmstaden in Råsunda and produced by Svensk Filmindustri. A fantastic picture of Bergman is available as a poster!

Other actors include:

• Alf Kjellin as Jan-Erik Widgren, a young student tormented by Caligula,
• Mai Zetterling in the role of Bertha Olsson, a woman Jan-Erik falls in love with,
• as well as other prominent names such as Olof Winnerstrand (Principal Lindberg), Gösta Cederlund (Doctor Sundell), Hugo Björne (Professor Pärsson) and younger actors such as Stig Olin and Gunnar Björnstrand.

The film's photography was done by Gösta Roosling, and the music was composed by Dag Wirén. It has a running time of 1 hour and 40 minutes.

The film premiered in eight cinemas around the country.

Reviews of Hets were predominantly positive, emphasizing the film's psychological acuity, acting skills, and timeless relevance.

Several film critics highlight Stig Järrel's role as Caligula as one of the most memorable in Swedish film history - both terrifying and skillfully played. Alf Kjellin's and Mai Zetterling's contributions are also praised for their sensitivity and credibility. The film is described as dark, intense and gripping, with a script that still feels relevant.

Some viewers note that the film can be experienced as heavy or unpleasant, but that this is part of its strength. It is seen as an important work in the Swedish film canon, especially for its themes of power, fear and the vulnerability of young people. Many consider Hets a must-see for anyone who wants to understand Swedish film history.

Hets received international attention and was awarded the Grand Prix in Cannes in 1946. The theme of power, fear and the vulnerability of young people still makes it relevant, which I think on the premiere day of October 2nd makes the film a reminder of its enduring importance.