Cold-blooded murder isn’t something you usually associate with comedy, but in this dark short from Gunnar Järvstad, a hitman-style execution is used to deliver the film’s hard-hitting punchline.

The opening 30 seconds of Tune for Two throws its audience straight into the films sinister scenario by establishing the film’s action through a POV shot of the stories potential victim. It’s a clever way to set the scene, and instantly we are engulfed in the dramatic situation quickly unraveling. The rest of the film plays out in the more traditional shot reverse-shot format, but the tension continues due to some robust acting from the two leads Fredrik Gunnarson and Daniel Adolfsson and some assured editing from Kristoffer Jönsson (also responsible for the film’s Cinematography).

In terms of style, Tune for Two manages to cram a lot into its short duration, and it’s a film that packs a punch with its aesthetics, as well as with its somewhat disturbing storyline. POV Shots, tension building sound effects and some snappy editing combine to mesmerizing effect, resulting in 2 minutes and 41 seconds of film it’s almost impossible to take your eyes off.

With its icy tones, snow-covered location and bitterly funny take on the hitman story, its hard not to watch this short and be reminded of the Coen brother’s critically acclaimed feature Fargo, and it’s a comparison Tune for Two can certainly live up to. Fargo is often much admired for its ability to be bleak, but humorous in equal measures and these are qualities Järvstad and his team have definitely strived for in their film. Small in duration, but big in effect, Tune for Two manages to make you laugh out loud one minute then gasp in horror the next. The Primdrom production team should be proud in creating a piece that is as flawlessly executed as the victim at the heart of their narrative.