As It Is in Heaven

During a live performance, renowned conductor Daniel Daréus unexpectedly suffers a heart attack. This life-altering event marks the beginning of his indefinite retirement from conducting, forcing him to confront his past and future.

After his heart attack, Daniel returns to his childhood home in the remote village of Norrland, Sweden. His arrival is bittersweet, filled with nostalgic memories and a sense of unease about the life he left behind.

Daniel discovers that the old elementary school he once attended now belongs to him. This place serves as a poignant reminder of his difficult childhood, where he faced relentless bullying and social isolation.

A chance encounter with the local choir leads Daniel to lend his musical expertise. Initially hesitant, he embarks on a journey of redemption and reintegration into the community.

Lena, a young and talented singer, joins the choir, adding complexity to Daniel's emotional journey. Her presence rekindles feelings he thought he had lost, challenging him to open his heart once more.

Inger, the wife of the local minister, grapples with her unhappy marriage and unfulfilled desires. Her plight reflects the tensions and unmet needs within the community's dynamics.

Holmfrid finally finds the courage to confront Arne, the conductor obsessed with perfection, who has bullied him for years. This confrontation highlights the choir's role as a supportive haven for its members.

Gabriella steps out of the shadows of her abusive past, emboldened by the community spirit within the choir. Her journey towards autonomy signifies the healing and growth taking place among the members.

Daniel encounters his childhood bully, Conny, who reemerges to disrupt his newfound peace. Their confrontation signifies unresolved conflicts and the impact of the past on Daniel’s present.

As the choir prepares for the prestigious 'Let the Peoples Sing' competition in Innsbruck, tensions rise. Lena struggles with insecurities regarding Daniel's connections to others in the community, adding to the emotional stakes.

On the morning of the competition, stress overwhelms Daniel, leading to another heart attack. In a disoriented state, he inadvertently injures himself, further adding to the tension of the competition.

Despite Daniel's absence, the choir takes the stage and captivates the audience with their performance. Their harmonious voices echo through the venue, conveying emotion that transcends language.

As Daniel lies alone on the cold restroom floor, he is enveloped by the cherished harmonies of his choir. In this moment, he experiences peace, symbolized by a serene smile as he fades into darkness.

The film concludes with an older Daniel sprinting through golden wheat fields towards his younger self. This vision represents his lifelong aspiration to create music that opens people’s hearts, a dream ultimately fulfilled.