Through A Glass Darkly DVD, 1961

It does seem at times as though Bergman is trying to keep all genuine emotion out of Through a Glass Darkly. If he is, then he's thwarted by rounded characters, extraordinary photography and above all, acting of the finest quality. Indeed, feeling that if Bergman weren't there forcing them, the characters would be warmer, would talk less and emote more, is a cohesive and comfortable way to view the film.

Critically characterised as cold and emotionless; it does seem at times as though Bergman is trying to keep all genuine emotion out of this film. If he is, then he's ... more >

Critically characterised as cold and emotionless; it does seem at times as though Bergman is trying to keep all genuine emotion out of this film. If he is, then he's thwarted by rounded characters, extraordinary photography and above all, by acting of the finest quality. Indeed, feeling that if Bergman weren't there forcing them, the characters would be warmer, would talk less and emote more, is a cohesive and comfortable way to view the film. Even the gauche ending sits better as a compromise, as though the father and son know that they are acting unrealistically, with real emotions underneath; just doing it this way to oblige Mr Bergman. "A genuine work of genius, maybe flawed, maybe not." AH < less

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