Review of Fanny and Alexander (1982) by Tor M — 05 Feb 2015

I saw the original version divided into four - probably a wise move since it's brutally long.

In the first part, at the "Ekdahlska huset", I get served flawless acting by many actors. Real, tragic crazyness from back in the days. I enjoy being a spectator and the cinematography is to blame together with mentioned acting, script and surprizingly edgy stuff - remember, the setting is put 100 years back. A great atmosphere, I get in the mood for christmas - in a weird way. I'm fearing/hoping it's a mild build-up for bigger happenings.

The second part is picking up a year later or so and is in the same style. Still a subtle bore-vibe over it, but the acting stays ace. Some bigger moments here as well, but I feel that the film hasen't bloomed just yet.

In the third part (or fourth act) things bloom. It's more psychological, darker - almost horrifying. It makes me really look forward to the last part of the film.

The last part and act five is truly a great finisher. It's more exciting, still dark. The great performances continue and we are up for several surprizes.

In total this is a great play told from kids eyes, but that's easy to forget.

It's epical, huge, long and filled with great characters. The manners of spoken words are fascinating and they are delt with so well. It's unexplainable at times, but also very real and probably a personal and nearly autobiographical film from Bergman. A late masterpice from one of few Scandinavian masters.

8.5 out of 10 cognacs.