Bergman’s films remind me of Picasso’s paintings. There are defined periods, consistent themes, and a prolific output across multiple generations. Picasso had his cubism, but he could also paint very standard portraits - that were just a bit more pointed or complicated than his peers.
Here, Bergman surprises with a true thriller. Sure - his obsessions with god’s silence and family dynamics and female psychology are all on full display.
But The Virgin Spring is also one of the more exciting and tense films about vengeance - and its toll — ever made. It could easily be screened in concert with Kill Bill or Death Wish, without much issue.
Unlike those films - Bergman is much more interested in the aftermath of righteous violence - which gives it a far deeper power to move.
Amazing work from a truly amazing auteur