ABOUT THE DEATH OF A WORKING MAN’S NEWSPAPER

Although it had been in existence for 113 years, Arbetet, a Malmö newspaper, was in its death throes by September 2000. A miracle would be needed to save it. LO, The Swedish Confederation of Trade Union , is rich but refuses to offer the newspaper any financial help. The turning point comes four days before the last issue is due to be published: a well-known building contractor is prepared to invest 40 million Kronor in Arbetet. Hope is kindled afresh…

”The death of a working man’s newspaper” was the irate headline chosen by Mats Ekdahl, the editor-in chief, for the edition of Arbetet on Saturday September 23rd. 2000 when the betrayal was complete. Fredrik Gertten, together with his colleagues Erik Bäfving and Ulf Södergren, filmed day and night throughout the historic week that Arbetet died.

PRESSKIT

PRODUCTION INFO

Title: The Death of a Working Man’s Newspaper

Genre: Documentary

Production year: 2000

Length: 50 min

CREDITS

Director: Fredrik Gertten

Producer: Fredrik Gertten

Editor: Ulrika Rang & Erik Bäfving