Johan is a frequent patron of the gay sauna Adonis, where he moves with ease through the dimly lit spaces, making seductive eye contact with men hidden in alcoves or covered in shadow. He knows who he is and what he wants in this hypermasculine world of darkroom hook-ups and instant gratification.
The film “Sauna” premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. It has a runtime of 105 minutes and was directed by Mathias Broe, who co-wrote the screenplay with William Lippert.
The story follows Johan as he navigates his relationships with other men at the sauna, exploring complex themes of love and intimacy. The film’s approach to its love story feels achingly authentic, with dynamics that make for a complex and grounded narrative.
With its attention to detail and nuanced character development, “Sauna” provides a thoughtful and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience.