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(out of 5)
This magnificent drama is notable for being the last feature film in which Ingrid Bergman appeared (and the only time she and her namesake ever worked together). She plays a famous musician who visits her homely, shy daughter (Liv Ullmann) for an extended vacation which starts with pleasantries and small talk before Ullmann unloads upon her mother every single woe she ever had during her childhood. Instead of being depressing, this sobering film offers its women a chance to undergo the worst emotional experience in a healing, cathartic way. Brilliantly acted, written, directed and photographed, it’s a standout achievement by a master filmmaker and his equally impressive stars. Ingrid Bergman got all the attention from the critics for her performance (as well as an Oscar nomination), but the film belongs to the work of both women.
Personafilm, Filmédis, Incorporated Television Company, Suede Film
France/West Germany/Sweden, 1978
Directed by Ingmar Bergman
Screenplay by Ingmar Bergman
Cinematography by Sven Nykvist
Production Design by Anna Asp
Costume Design by Inger Pehrsson
Film Editing by Sylvia Ingemarsson
The Criterion Collection
Academy Award Nominations
Best Actress in a Leading Role (Ingrid Bergman as “Charlotte Andergast”)
Best Writing (Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen) (Ingmar Bergman)
Golden Globe Award
Best Foreign Film (Sweden)
Nomination
Best Performance By An Actress in a Motion Picture-Drama (Ingrid Bergman)
