Archive for the ‘Ingmar Bergman’ Category:
Persona
A minimalist exploration of the human psyche. Bergman’s supreme masterpiece. Could possibly be the highest level of art in cinema. There’s a reason why Bergman’s considered the greatest screenwriter of all time.
Hour of the Wolf
Bergman delves into psychologically disturbing material. The closest he ever came to making a horror film. Avante-garde cinema at its finest.
The Silence
One of Bergman’s most hypnotic and intriguing cinematic works. Third part of the outstanding trilogy on the absence of God. Broke new ground in film history.
The Virgin Spring
A timeless, grim, hopeful and archetypal story with a dark turn of events. At first glance it appears to be one of Bergman’s more overtly religious films. However, upon closer inspection it deals more directly with guilt and shame. Max Von Sydow is amazing in his portrayal of a Father trying to control his anger. Nykvist’s cinematography is shimmering in its simplistic beauty. The performances are at times theatrical but always convincing. Especially considering when it was made, it’s astonishing how unflinching the film is. (It was later remade into Last House on the Left.) Another stroke of genius was Bergman’s choice to have the majority of the film done in silence. Screenwriters take note! In the end, it remains one of the most emotionally moving and deceivingly simple Bergman films out there.
Wild Strawberries
Bergman’s statement on old age. Touching, elegant and poignant.
Shame
Max Von Sydow and Liv Ullman are incredible to watch. Bergman delves deep into the mud and uncovers a profound statement on war.
The Passion of Anna
Outstanding Bergman film. Dark, heavy, yet profound. His use of color is remarkable. Sydow and Ullman are riveting.
Scenes from a Marriage
Bergman’s realist phase. Quasi-documentary with riveting performances. Groundbreaking in content.
Autumn Sonata
Emotionally devastating. Ingrid Bergman and Liv Ullman play Mother and Daughter and cinema has never been the same since. A beautiful chamber piece that truly feels as if the viewer is intruding where they do not belong.
Through a Glass Darkly
The first of Bergman’s religion trilogy. A schizophrenic woman believes she can hear God. Outstanding stuff.
