Bergman: A Year in a Life 2018
Distributed by Collective Eye Films, 1315 SE 20th Ave. #3, Portland OR 97214; 971-236-2056
Produced by Fredrik Heinig, Cecilia Nessen, and Mattias Nohrborg
Directed by Jane Magnusson
Streaming, 117 mins
General Adult
Art; Filmmaking
Date Entered: 01/03/2022
Reviewed by Steven Guerrero, Media Arts & Digitization Librarian, University of North TexasBergman: A Year in a Life is a biographical documentary on acclaimed arthouse film director Ingmar Bergman. The film examines the filmmaker’s life through his experience in the year 1957, one of Bergman’s most productive years. So much has been said and shown about this iconic figure but this documentary unearths a wealth of never-before-seen footage, including an interview with Bergman’s brother Dag. The director had previously used his influence to bury the interview and it becomes apparent why. While the documentary does its fair share of praise for Bergman, who is one of the most honored cinematic artists ever in terms of awards, it also reveals Bergman’s toxic tendencies in both his personal and professional lives. These details range from being a self-proclaimed Nazi as Nazism spread throughout Europe to being toxic and neglectful in his many relationships. It more than complicates the perception of his genius and further elucidates the fact that he is one of many problematic people who are lauded despite their glaring flaws.
Director Jane Magnusson manages to weave in and out of the warts and all approach through the framing of Bergman’s creative output in 1957. Diary entries, scripts, notes, and interviews with collaborators depict the grueling and unbelievable process of releasing two widely revered films, making a film for television, and directing four plays in one momentous year. The interviews are insightful, and the footage brings the audience closer into the processes of the mercurial figure. This is an informative look at a problematic artist whose works are still seen as deeply influential and important. This film would serve well for courses in Film Studies.
Awards: Official Selection for the 2018 Festival de Cannes and BFI London Film Festival
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