The Devil's Eye

I admire Ingmar Bergman, Sweden's greatest director, hugely. His films are incredibly well made and thought-provoking, as well as on the most part superbly directed and acted complete with memorable images. The Devil's Eye is not one of his best, it does get off to a slow start, the ending does feel rather weak and there are a few scenes that feel a little too talky. However, it is still worth watching, even if not up to the standards set by The Seventh Seal, Fanny and Alexander, Wild Strawberries, Cries and Whispers, Persona and The Virgin Spring a "lesser" from one of cinema's most influential directors is still better than some directors when at their best. The Devil's Eye is not the most stunning visually of Bergman's films, but it is still skillfully made and has nothing that comes across as cheap. The music is simple, but hauntingly beautiful at the same time. The story is atypical Bergman, with a structure that is very like it was set out as a play but it is also wonderfully ironic, while the script on the most part is funny with a couple of thoughtful moments. Bergman's direction may not show him on his best form but still shows a director who knows what he's doing and what he wants. The performances are fine, Bibbi Andersson does give a strong performance, Nils Poppe is very funny and Jarl Kulle displays a lot of verve as the playboy released from Hell sort of character. Gunner Bjornstrand is good to see, though he has been better. Overall, worth watching, funny and interesting. Just not one of Bergman's crowning jewels. 7/10 Bethany Cox