Review of Hour of the Wolf (1968) by Christopher P — 21 May 2009
Ingmar Bergman's follow-up to his brilliant "Persona" is shot wonderfully and presented with sure-handed direction. It is still relatable to the human mind, as is usual, and makes tangible the demons everyone encounters. The only film that could be deemed a horror movie in Bergman's repertoire, it depicts the loneliness that can be experienced when one of the lovers in a relationship brings down the entire establishment. Even though the point is quite attainable and the symbolism very evident, the story remains unrelentingly haunting.
The leads in Sydow (Johan) and Ullmann (Alma) are extremely convincing as the distraught couple. While Alma tries to remain supportive and hopeful for the future with a baby on the way, Johan deprives her of sleep in order to fight the hour of the wolf (between three and four in the morning; when most people die and most babies are born). The tragedy lies in depressed Johan, who can't fight the demons and only inspires his wife to see them as well. There is hope in the end, however, and the darkness can be fought. The only question is; for how long, though?
This review of Hour of the Wolf (1968) was written by Christopher P on 21 May 2009.
Hour of the Wolf has generally received very positive reviews.
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