You die when you're young

Set in Biskopsgården, one of Sweden’s most stigmatized urban areas, You Die When You’re Young is a powerful and deeply human documentary that follows the lives of three teenagers over four years. With rare intimacy and nuance, the film offers a raw and emotional portrayal of growing up in the shadow of social exclusion, gang violence, and systemic neglect. At the heart of the story are Elmedina, a gifted young singer struggling against family pressure and cultural expectations; Adam, a brilliant but restless teen whose hacking spirals into serious consequences; and Alex, a boy drawn into crime while trying to protect his younger sister. Guiding them is Filip, a youth center worker acting as mentor, friend, and lifeline. More than just a documentary, this is a vital and timely story about vulnerability, choices, and resilience in the face of a society that often looks the other way.

Directed by Carl Pontus Hjorthén, You die when you're young leans on a strong ensemble — Elmedina Sacirovic, Adam Bashar, Alexander Admassu — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2025.