Under the Sun (Under Solen)
A perfectly lovely excursion to the Swedish countryside, as love sprouts in an unlikely place. It's 1956, and a 40-year-old bachelor farmer (played by the hefty and likable Rolf Lassgard) places an ad for a housekeeper. The woman that shows up on his doorstep is a city-wise knockout--which pleases the farmer no end, but sets off warning bells for his skeptical buddy. Director Colin Nutley (reuniting with his radiantHouse of Angelsstar, Helena Bergstrom) doesn't stint on the lush visual treatment of a golden rural oasis in summer, but the movie isn't just eye candy. Its careful, respectful approach to a gently-growing romance is like the patience of a farmer who knows that a good crop takes time to nurture. Added bonus:  the music from Irish musician Paddy Moloney of the Chieftains, another unexpected choice in a movie that simply feels really good.--Robert Horton