Carl Dreyer Films

181. Gertrude (1964) - Carl Dreyer's film about a 1900s Swedish wife who decides to leave her politician husband for someone else. The actress Nina Rode is great as the proud, determined, selfish, courageous,(She's complex baby) woman who sacrifices everything for love. Like some other Dreyer films this would benefited from some lighter moments. Lots of long takes and dialog - static but beautifully photographed. The pace is deliberate - but I was never bored. The movie implicitly deals with some important issues Love,art,individual will, etc. Makes "The Dolls House" seem like a kindergarten play. Great in its way, but you need to be in the right mood to enjoy it. Rating ****
203. Ordet (1954) Directed by Carl Dreyer - this is simply one of the best movies I've seen. Based on the 1925 play by Kaj Munk it concerns a Danish Farm Family led by the devout father, there are his three sons: Mikkel, the eldest, who has no faith; Johannes, who has lost his mind and believes himself to be Jesus ; the third and youngest son is Anders, who wants to marry the daughter of a tailor who refuses the marriage because of Anders' (Cay Kristiansen) religious beliefs. The movie concerns religious faith, but the characters are so well-written and well-acted they come alive & its never boring. However, I found myself Fast forwarding through a lot of Johannes' "crazy talk" in the middle part of the film. The ending is very touching.

This film is what art should be about. While I loved it, I wouldn't recommend it to everyone. Its not dull or bleak - but its deliberately paced and about a serious subject. Rating - ****

204. Days of Wrath (1943) Another Carl Dreyer film. Set in a 17th century Danish Village the second young wife of an older Pastor falls in love with her stepson. The Village is ruled by church elders who dispense a harsh brand of Christianity including Witch Burning. Mixed feelings on this one. Well written, beautifully photographed and well-acted - with a great ending. But - the subject matter struck me as unpleasant - and the characters aren't very likable. Further, in general I dislike movies about Witch burning (Crucible) or adultery (Scarlet Letter). I admire the film greatly, but didn't enjoy it much - except for the ending. Rating ***