Lasse Hallström

Biography

Lasse Hallström (born June 2, 1946, in Stockholm, Sweden) is a renowned Swedish film director and screenwriter, celebrated for his emotionally resonant storytelling and adept literary adaptations. His illustrious career spans from directing music videos for ABBA to helming critically acclaimed international films.​

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Hallström's passion for filmmaking ignited during his school years, when he crafted 8mm films with classmates. In the late 1960s, he commenced his professional journey at Sveriges Television, directing short pop music clips. His collaboration with ABBA between 1974 and 1982, directing nearly all their music videos and the 1977 film ABBA: The Movie, propelled him into the spotlight.

International Breakthrough

Hallström's international acclaim soared with My Life as a Dog (Mitt liv som hund, 1985), a poignant coming-of-age tale that garnered him Academy Award nominations for Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay. This success paved his path to Hollywood, where he directed What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993), featuring Johnny Depp and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Hollywood Success and Notable Works

Hallström's Hollywood tenure includes several acclaimed films:​

The Cider House Rules (1999): Earned him a second Oscar nomination for Best Director. ​

Chocolat (2000): A romantic drama starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp, nominated for multiple Academy Awards. ​

Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009): A heartfelt story of loyalty based on a true Japanese tale.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (2011): A romantic comedy-drama featuring Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt.

A Dog’s Purpose (2017): Explores the bond between humans and their canine companions.

In 2022, he directed Hilma, a biopic about Swedish artist Hilma af Klint, starring his wife, Lena Olin.

Personal Life

Hallström was first married to Malou Hallström, with whom he has a son, Johan. In 1994, he married Swedish actress Lena Olin; they have a daughter, Tora. The family resides in Bedford, New York, and also maintains a home in the Stockholm Archipelago. Hallström adopted a vegan lifestyle in 2014. ​