SF Cabaret: A curious little slice of Swedish stage history

Is this actually worth watching?

If you have a weird itch to see what passed for prime-time entertainment in Sweden nearly a century ago, then sure, jump in. It's a short, breezy affair that doesn't overstay its welcome. But if you’re looking for a plot, or honestly anything resembling a narrative structure, you’re going to hate every second of this.

It’s really just a collection of acts. You’ve got the Sorbon Sisters doing their vocal harmonies, and some light, breezy musical numbers from the SF orchestra. It feels less like a movie and more like a captured performance that someone forgot to throw away.

The Vibe

There’s something genuinely sweet about how simple the staging is here. It’s not trying to blow your mind with massive production values or complex camera work. It just puts the performers in front of you and lets them do their thing. The Sorbon Sisters have this charming, synchronized energy that feels very much of its era—sharp, quick, and surprisingly precise.

I found myself wondering if they ever got tired of performing these same routines. The Two Alverados pop up too, providing that classic variety-show flavor that you just don't see anymore. It’s light, almost airy stuff. Kind of like watching a very old episode of a show you’ve never heard of.

Oddly Specific Details

• The orchestra’s timing is suspiciously perfect for something filmed in the 30s.
• I couldn't stop looking at the background curtains; they look remarkably dusty.
• Nils Jerring shows up, and for a second, you think, "Wait, is this going somewhere?" but no, it doesn't.

It’s funny to compare this to something like Ship Ahoy, which has a bit more of a "cinematic" push. SF Cabaret doesn't care about the screen. It cares about the microphone. It’s a radio show with pictures attached.

There's a moment during the middle set where the lighting seems to flicker just a bit too much. It adds this frantic, jittery quality to the whole thing. It’s probably just a technical glitch from the film reel, but it makes the performance feel weirdly urgent. Almost like they knew the film was decaying even then.

Don't look for a deep meaning. Don't look for a "profound exploration of the human condition." You’ll be looking for a long time. Just watch the sisters harmonize and enjoy the fact that this even exists at all. It’s not great art, but it’s a nice, strange little snack for a rainy Tuesday afternoon. 🎞️