Watch The Library Thief

The Library Thief, also known as Bibliotekstjuven, is an engaging, thrilling Swedish mini-series that first debuted in 2011 and now is part of MHz Choice's fabulous European collection. Acclaimed director Daniel Lind Lagerlöf brilliantly brings to screen Mikael Strunge's suspenseful script to create a compelling tale of intrigue, mystery, and deception.

Set against the backdrop of one of Stockholm's most prestigious libraries, the series revolves around a seemingly unassuming character, John Johansson, brilliantly portrayed by Gustaf Skarsgård. Johansson is a diligent, introverted, mild-mannered librarian who is dedicated to his job. While primarily focused on the daily duties of maintaining and caring for the precious old books under his care, Johansson's life takes an engrossing twist as he gets embroiled in crimes threatening the very foundation of his secure world.

The story is based on a real-life incident in Sweden in the 2000s, tracing Johansson’s transformation resulting in a series of complex events. As the series progresses, it gradually indulges into an exploration of Johansson's complicated personality. His obsessive fascination with the valuable books in the library and the dark secrets he harbors mirror the intense psychological depth at the heart of the series.

The series introduces us to a strange network, encompassing those within the library to dangerous criminals and greedy antique book dealers operating in a secret, unforgiving underground world. As Johansson, torn between his love for books and his compulsion to protect them, the narrative takes the audience on a thrilling ride as it delves into morality, human psychology, and the lengths to which one man will go to safeguard a beloved world.

Johansson’s relationship with the world of rare book collectors, especially with wealthy antique bookseller Bergman, played by Reine Brynolfsson, forms an enigmatic subplot. Their interaction adds a layer of thrill while raising philosophical questions regarding the definition of crime and punishment. The dynamic portrayal of characters, each with their unique role in this gripping tale, strikes a balance between enthralling mystery and raw, human emotions.

Part of what makes The Library Thief so captivating is its excellent casting. Gustaf Skarsgård breathes life into John Johansson's character, effortlessly embodying his transformation while maintaining an air of indistinct mystery and showcasing a great display of talent. The supporting cast, especially Reine Brynolfsson, lends tremendous depth to the narrative, crafting a world so layered and complex that it keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats till the very end.

Lind Lagerlöf, known for his brilliant storytelling, creates a captivating ambiance with a masterful blend of suspense and drama. The cinematography by Olof Johnson beautifully captures the grandeur of Stockholm and the charm of the antique library paired with the intriguing, dark world that thrives within it. The tight, thoughtful narrative culminates to a thrilling crescendo as secrets unfold and loyalties are put to the test.

The Library Thief is a meticulously crafted, cerebral thriller that combines elements of crime, mystery, and psychology. However, it is more than a piece of entertainment; it is an exploration of obsession, moral duality, and personal ethics. Skarsgård's excellent performance and Lagerlöf's superb direction create an experience that is not just suspenseful but also profound and insightful, drawing viewers into the labyrinthine layers of a world where knowledge, obsession, and crime intersect.