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    April 23, 2008
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hello4u2me's Reviews
 
Persona is widely considered to be among the very finest films directed by Ingmar Bergman. This special edition DVD release of the film from MGM/UA offers a first-rate transfer that showcases all the nuances in Sven Nykvist's cinematography. The film is presented in the original theatrical aspect ratio of 1.33:1. Swedish and English soundtracks are rendered in Dolby Digital English. English, French, and Spanish subtitles are accessible. Supplemental materials include a commentary track recorded by Marc Gervais. Although Gervais has written a book about Bergman, he offers very little background on the artist. Instead he offers numerous possible readings of the film without taking a stand on any of them. Interviews with the two lead actresses, a still photo gallery, and the original theatrical trailer round out this disc, which is available as a single disc and as part of a box set that contains new versions of other Bergman films.
 
Customer Rating
5 out of 5
5
Favorite Bergman Film
on April 23, 2008
Posted by: hello4u2me
In my opinion, Persona may be THE best film by Bergman (at least my favorite one), but that's up for debate and depends on preference. Like any other of his films, the concept is simple, but Bergman includes so many complexities within the film. I could spend much time on this but feel that it isn't necessary. The film depends on the relationship and interactions between Elisabet and Alma, so the acting would need to be especially strong. Of course, this is no surprise. (It's a Bergman film, after all!) As in other films I've seen her in, Liv Ullman is a revelation as much so as Bibi Andersson.
The images in the Persona are so strikingly beautiful. Many of the frames from the film, I feel, could be in a museum. The way in which Bergman layers the images is astounding and revolutionary. The composition and superimposition of faces in novel ways really adds to the feeling that Elisabet and Alma may have switched personas or may be the same person after all, which becomes more and more evident as the film progresses. The surrealist progression of images is particularly effective. (On a side note, this DVD is the complete, uncensored version of the film, so the infamous shot is included---Look it up on Wikipedia.)
The quality of the DVD is superb. As someone who initially watched the film on VHS, it is amazing how crystal-clear the picture looks. It also does help that the subtitles are not white and on a white background, often the case on the VHS.
Overall, Persona is a great film. One that should be seen if not bought.
Recommendations: Cries and Whispers, 8 1/2, The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie
What's great about it: Great concept; strong acting by Ullman and Andersson; great composition and framing
What's not so great: Some may think that it is too slow-moving
I would recommend this to a friend!
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