The Simple-Minded Murderer

Under a setting sun in 1930s Skåne, Sven and Anna cruise in a Rolls-Royce across the landscape. Sven spots three angels in the sky, an omen that something dark is beginning. They seek shelter in an old house, and Sven hurls a bloodstained blade into a well before lying down to recount how it all began.

After his mother dies, Sven is taken in by Höglund, a rich factory owner and local Nazi party member who runs a farm. He must work without pay and sleep among the cows in the stables while a rat torments him. Compassion keeps him from drowning the rat even after catching it.

While reading a Bible gifted by his sister, Sven imagines three angels visiting him from time to time. They speak to him in a clear voice, revealing an inner dialogue that guides his choices. This mind-voice frames his sense of right and fuels his moral resolve.

Sven meets Anna, a wheelchair user, and they gradually fall in love. Fleeing Höglund's oppression, Sven is welcomed by Anna's family, who give him a real bed and honest work. Mr. Andersson pays Sven in real money, signaling his newfound legitimacy.

Höglund presses to recover his 'property,' but Andersson boldly stands up for Sven, arguing the case at the farm. Sven has a moment of fear as the tension peaks, and he faints. His sense of safety deepens when he realizes he now has a place and purpose.

Sven saves up and buys a genuine Indian motorcycle, a tangible symbol of his independence. He enjoys the new freedom until the looming feud with Höglund boils again.

Höglund uses his influence to block Sven's driver's license, sparking a long, public media battle. With Andersson's help and persistent pressure, Sven ultimately secures the license and can ride openly.

As the farm faces financial crisis, Höglund's power tightens around the Anderssons. Höglund's new chauffeur steals Sven's motorcycle and destroys it, worsening Sven's anger and despair. The aftermath deepens the strain on Sven and his loved ones.

Anna screams in desperation, blaming Sven for the mounting hardship. In a reckless moment, Sven pushes her out of her wheelchair, only to instantly regret the act and feel the weight of his actions.

Fueled by rage and a sense of injustice, Sven grabs a blade from a chaff cutter and heads toward Höglund's factory. Three angels accompany him, singing Verdi's Requiem as he confronts Höglund. He steals Höglund's car and rescues Anna, driving to the deserted house where the story began.

As dawn breaks, police surround the deserted house and the Anderssons plead for Sven's life. A couple of shots are heard, and the film closes with the sun rising over the southern Swedish landscape.