Review of Ordet (1955) by Nathanael B — 26 Mar 2007
Exploration into the doubt of faith. One can't help but relate the film to the prolific writing of Soren Kierkigaard, particularly the piece 'Fear and Trembling'; what one should think and do with their faith. It's no surprise to see Kierkigaard referenced on various occaisions both subliminally and explicately. Directed by one of the early auteurs from the silent era. Dreyer couldn't pry from the concept of theology, which he accomodated with various layers of existentialism.
Both sides of this existential study are highlighted; the soldier of faith and the soldier of infinite resignation. Throughout the film I couldn't figure which Christian denominations both fathers associated themselves with. I assume this was intentionally pre-conceived, to emphasise the fact that differences between denominations are superfluous.
The film leaves us with a metaphysical but personal ending, a truly beautiful and subversive film. An ending which means so little but also provides so much fullfilness and the absolute.
This review of Ordet (1955) was written by Nathanael B on 26 Mar 2007.
Ordet has generally received very positive reviews.
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