Review of Persona (1966) by Luke B — 07 Aug 2008

Bergman has many wonderful musings to explore here but fails to develop a character or story interesting enough to present them. I find that presentation is the key and is something David Lynch pulls off brilliantly even in times of confusion.

Film can be an artistic expression but it should also be interesting. Bergman's other films are beautifully constructed, but Persona is such a grim and emotionless tale it's hard to really analyse what Bergman was trying to do or say.

For myself this was a rare misstep from a brilliant film maker. Though the performances were wonderfully handled and the photography was stunning.