straiton

(2012-04-30 19:32:37)

satisfying on many levels: a reflection on Bergamn as illusionist

Many people may have missed the satisfaction of reading the extra layerof meaning in this film: that the "magician" is the the filmmaker orvisa versa, in this case Bergman himself. Without giving anything ofthe plot away, I can say that The Magician is a reflection on Bergamn'srole as a creator of illusions. He uses the story of a rovingtheatrical troupe with an magician to illuminate the metaphor. Theapparently abrupt turn of events at the end is Bergman's signal that heis the master of your perceptions in this medium, that he compares tothe experience of dreaming. It is interesting to compare this film with Fellini's 8 1/2, anotherfilmmaker's reflection on the process and meaning of film-making. Twovery different sensibilities are at work in these two films, but withsurprisingly close parallels in their endings, and involuted plots. I found this film highly satisfying on many levels, even taken at itsapparent face value, as a romp. Seen a second time the illusionistbegins to emerge more clearly, from the moment the film opens, with thelighting of the arc lamp of a film projector.

ian_harris

(2012-04-30 05:08:07)

Surprisingly Superb

I didn't expect to like this movie, given its period, headline subjectmatter etc. But don't let those factors put you off, there is real depthand some top notch scenes in this surprisingly superb movie. Max von Sydow, Gunner Bjornstrand and Ingrid Thulin are three of Bergman'smost consistent quality performers and all three have major roles in thisfilm. There are a fair number of stereotypical character parts, mostlyperformed by ensemble quality character actors. Bibi Andersson is capableof far more than her giggly girl part enables her to show in this film. Indeed, there is some comedic material in this film reminiscent of Smiles ofa Summer Night, but don't mistake this movie for one of Bergman's lessmasterful light pieces, this has real depth and substance.There are some amazing bits of cinematography, especially the early scenes. The pacing of the movie is masterful, as is the clever use of parallels inthe story - the failed actor "dying" and then reviving is a prelude to thepivotal incident around Vogler's "demise".Top notch scenes include Mrs Egerman opening up to Vogler - she seems solost - also both scenes in which Bjornstrand's character (Vergerus) insiststhat he was not taken in by the "magic".This is now in my Bergman top 5, which makes it a "must see" in mybook.

Tim Kidner

(2012-04-28 18:38:42)

"Light" Bergman?

Some reviewers have set themselves out to compare The Magician squarelyagainst Ingmar's previous two masterpieces, The Seventh Seal and WildStrawberries and mark The Magician down, unfairly. It almost cannot bepossible to attain the dizzy heights of adulation of those two and assuch, we are treated something lighter and possibly, more enjoyable.Mr Bergman, in his long illustrious career covered many types ofsubjects. Starting with straightforward and rather dull dramas, throughkitchen-sink (Ikea style?!!) and onto the darker shades of humanpsychology. And beyond, sometimes.The Seventh Seal succeeded due to its extraordinary storytelling andimagery - along with just about everything else. Wild Strawberries dueto its poignancy and leading performances that resonated with a senseof recognition and support in its audience. Other titles offer dark,deep blackly brooding death obsessed monologues that brush againstexquisite period dramas of superb detail and cinematography.The Magician, though has always been one of my favourites. Neithercomedy nor horror film but light, often humorous drama that touchesupon the Wonder in us all. We all want to see behind a master ofillusion and the mixture of nostalgia, set in the comparativelyfairytale setting of Scandinavia. I almost find it more akin to ConanDoyle than the witch- hunting or almost unfathomable symbolisms foundin many other Bergman's. As Bergman is one of my favourite directors of all time, warts and alland have 47 of his films I'd say this has much to offer, both to fanssuch as myself as well being good family entertainment that strengthenshis cinematic arsenal, not weakens it.

Galina

(2012-04-28 02:32:43)

"The Tortured Soul of an Artist or Smiles of a Summer Night meets Hour of the Wolf."

With the exception for the abrupt and somehow rushed and unsatisfyingending, "Magician" is a typical (in a good sense of the word) Bergman'sfilm that I liked a lot. I would call it "The Tortured Soul of anArtist or Smiles of a Summer Night meets Hour of the Wolf." I did notknow what to expect from the film and was pleasantly surprised by aninteresting story; impressive (especially in the earlier scenes in thewoods) black and white cinematography; perfect blend of humor, intensedrama, and mystery. Acting was perfect - not a big surprise with thecast like that: Max von Sydow, Ingrid Thulin, Gunnar BjГѓВ¶rnstrand, BibiAndersson, and Erland Josephson. I'd like to mention Naima Wifstrand asGranny Vogler - what a great actress and what a character - she steppedout from the pages of the fairy tales, the old witch, wise andpowerful; she also provides many comical scenes.7.5/10

yabullar

(2012-04-26 17:02:35)

Religious symbolism in Ansiktet (The Magician)

Most of Ingmar Bergman's films are meant to titillate the intellect.The Magician is no exception. It is rich with symbolism. I think itranks right up there with "Death in Venice" on the list ofmisunderstood movies.I believe the most rewarding level of meaning in "The Magician" is thereligious one. Bergman was often concerned with the implications ofreligious beliefs. And almost always from the attitude of doubt.Consider the lines in The Seventh Seal where the vicious monk, annoyedwith the knight's persistence, asks, "Will you never stop askingquestions?" and the knight replies resolutely, "No. Never."Watching this movie with the idea of Vogler as Jesus provides aperspective that informs the characters and their conduct. Thismelancholy magician, doubted and persecuted by the powerful, surroundedby strange and suspicious persons, is simultaneously visionary andearthy flesh and blood. He only wants to perform his miracles for themasses. Or is he a charlatan? What a powerful way to pose thatquestion.

Hitchcoc

(2012-04-26 00:07:22)

We're on Stage with the Magician!

I'm slowly making my way through the Bergman canon (thank you Netflix)and am having a ball. I saw this film about forty years ago and forgothow captivating it is. Things are not as they seem anywhere in thismovie. People die and come back to life, some can speak and then theycan't. It has great villains and an incredible cast. Of course, it'sthe story of a group of traveling showmen who arrive at the home ofsome wealthy people. They are seen as an inferior class and are forcedto grovel before they can earn their livings. They participate inbyplay with those who have come to see them (some from the localvillage), including he servants. There is sexual activity and a lot ofmanipulation. When the actual magic show begins, we are in on some ofthe tricks, but others are unexplainable. These people seem able to acton the minds of the characters and get them to expose their dirtysecrets. But, as we see, there are other forms of magic, not just thedark kind. Watch this a couple of times. You won't be disappointed.