Review of Winter Light (1963) by Lynda M — 11 Nov 2009

Ingmar Bergman's second film in his Faith Trilogy, Winter Light, is about the silence of God.

It is a bleak and very powerful film about Tomas Ericsson, a pastor of a small rural Swedish church, as he questions the existence of God and his faith is replaced with doubt, apathy and anger. After trying to provide counsel to Jonas, before finally admitting that he has no faith as well. He tells the depressed man that his faith was an egotistical one â?? God loved humanity, but Tomas most of all. Tomas finally tells Jonas that things make more sense if we deny the existence of God, because then man's cruelty needs no explanation. Jonas leaves, and Tomas faces the crucifix and declares himself finally free.

Bergman creates what might be his most depressing film. It is one with so much power. Gunnar Björnstrand gives an understated and sublime performance as the doubtful pastor. Max Von Sydow in one of his shortest roles also gives a good performance as man seeking counsel. Ingrid Thulin is also quite good especially during the scene in the classroom as well as the "letter" scene which foreshadows Bergman's masterpiece Persona.

Sven Nykvist as always is such a professional when it comes to the camerawork. The lighting is gorgeous and his pans are superb as always. It may not be one of his top 5 films but is certainly in his top 10.

This film will leave you awestruck and possibly with doubts of your own. 10/10.