I enjoy movies, but I'm no film buff, an as such, a lot gets by me. Of course I'm familiar with the name Ingmar Bergman, but I've never seen any of his work... and now it seems it may be high time to acquaint myself. The legendary director died today at home on the Baltic islet where he spent the last years of his life, prompting round after round of retrospective accolades. Variously remembered as a filmmaker who "showed that cinema could be a genuine art that could take on the deepest of all human themes," and as a legend who was "probably the greatest film artist, all things considered, since the invention of the motion picture camera," he's inspired and moved movie makers and movie watchers the world over. Would you like to brush up on your Bergman? The Guardian's film blog has a terrific collection of key scenes. And if you have a recommendation about which movie I -- and other folks interested in sampling his work -- should pick up first, please leave it in the comments for us.
Blog of the Nation
I have seen three Bergman films, Persona, The Virgin Spring, and The Seventh Seal. However, I know from this brief sampling that all of his work is worth exploring. Not only are the films visually stunning, the characters are incredibly real. Their emotions are palpable, and none of their actions are out of place. I think Bergman was an expert on human nature. As dark and as flawed as they are, his characters are undeniably real and human. His films are incredibly inspiring, and I must admit I was saddened by his death. I am only 20, and as a young person beginning to explore the work of some of the great artist of 20th century, I had hoped to be able to meet him some day.
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