Ingmar Bergman - Mysterious Yesterdays

Persona (1966)

Ingmar Bergman, Swedish director, the man who contributed new meanings to the world of film making. "Persona" one of his masterpiece work, is a beautiful film that should be appreciated on many aspects - direction, acting, sound, lighting, and cinematography.
"Persona" is a very vague film which can bring enormous thoughts about personality and identity. There are not many characters, just two of them. Two gorgeous actresses, Liv Ullmann and Bibi Andersson gives their best performance. Sometimes Bibi Andersson's voice seems the highlight of the film or Liv Ullmann's expressions through her face and eyes is remarkable. The cinematography of this film is extraordinary. Black & White visuals are stunning. "Persona", acclaimed as one of cinema's best films, which may require watching it over and over and cannot comprehend fully about the film, which means, you will come to know more and more about this beautiful movie each time you watch it.

Wild Strawberries (1957)

One of the fine movies which depicts the theme of meaning of life. "Wild Strawberries" is about memory and hope. An elderly professor on his way to receive an honorary degree, trace back his past and presents to discover and understand what effect he has had on others, his success, his failures etc. Its is a thought provoking movie directed by Bergman. As usual Bergman's careful character study is seen throughout the film. Cinematography is excellent too and is a proof that Black & White cinematography can make more powerful visuals. As usual existence of God is also debated in this movie. "Wild Strawberries" is also humorous at some points. Intelligent direction by Bergman makes it worth watching every time.

The Seventh Seal (1957)

Masterpiece work from Ingmar Bergman. "The Seventh Seal" tells the story of a Knight who returns home from the crusades, encounters death and start asking questions about life. The movie debates about religion and existence of God as usual. Every aspects of the real life is mentioned here. This is a very powerful film directed by Bergman, which raises endless questions about life and death. Its a philosophical art work carefully crafted and every time you watch this film, you are left to think about it. Performances are extraordinary and cinematography is great like all Bergman's movies. Many of his films are inspirational and influential for other film makers and those who seek film studies. "The Seventh Seal" is a timeless movie from the great master.

"Film as dream, film as music. No art passes our conscience in the way film does, and goes directly to our feelings, deep down into the dark rooms of our souls."-Ingmar Bergman-