Kevlar Soul

Maria
Eriksson-Hecht

As a director, Maria Eriksson-Hecht is known for authentically portraying the struggles of children let down by the adult world. Having earned a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in directing from the Stockholm Academy of Dramatic Arts, her 2017 graduation film “Schoolyard Blues” went on to screen at over 100 festivals and garnered more than 40 awards. Maria has directed episodes for the successful series “Thin Blue Line" and “Thunder in My Heart.” “Kevlar Soul” marks her feature debut.

Alex and Robin live on the edge of a Swedish industrial town with their father – a violent, alcoholic man broken by life. Older brother Alex tries to hold things together, calming their father’s rages and caring for Robin while carrying burdens far beyond his years. When lively, self-assured Ines enters the scene, she and Alex form a fragile connection. Robin, feeling left out, turns elsewhere for comfort – and slides toward danger. Kevlar, named after the ultra-strong material, adds a symbolic layer to this powerful debut. Director Jenifer Malmqvist blends raw social realism with poetic nuance, capturing a world of broken adults and resilient children. Despite the darkness, there’s room for tenderness, hope, and humanity. With strong performances and emotional depth, the film is a poignant portrait of brotherhood, survival, and the search for love in the cracks of a fractured world. It premiered at the Göteborg Film Festival.