Cries and Whispers

About Cries and Whispers

'Cries and Whispers', released in 1972, is a Swedish drama film directed by the legendary auteur Ingmar Bergman. It revolves around the lives of four women who grapple with emotional turmoils and existential crises in a dramatic realm.

The plot is set in the 19th century. The narrative sprawls within a mansion where three sisters Agnes, Maria, and Karin and a dedicated servant named Anna reside. Agnes's grim struggle with cancer becomes the focal point that effectively encapsulates a myriad of emotions ranging from familial love, jealousy, and contempt to desperation and grim solitude. The engrossing screenplay imbued with symbolic elements and introspective dialogues makes this film a notable entry in Bergman's illustrious filmography.

Making / Production

The film was produced by Lars-Owe Carlberg, with Ingmar Bergman at the helm. Sven Nykvist managed the cinematography and presented a gripping yet beautifully woven narrative that is both impactful and aesthetically pleasing. The film's minimalistic set and art design further added to its evocative nature.

Actors

• Harriet Andersson as Agnes - Her performance of a woman succumbing to an agonizing death was potent and moving.
• Ingrid Thulin as Karin - Her portrayal of Karin, the frigid and repressed sister, was haunting and memorable.
• Liv Ullmann as Maria - Ullmann's portrayal of the vain and emotionally oblivious Maria was nuanced and compelling.
• Kari Sylwan as Anna - Sylwan gave a heartwrenching performance as the servant devotedly caring for her dying mistress.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film is notable for its striking use of color, particularly red, which Bergman said represents "the interior of the soul."
• Ingmar Bergman claims it is his only film where he was able to accomplish everything he wanted.
• Sven Nykvist, the cinematographer, won an Academy Award for Best Cinematography for his work on the film.

Awards

The film scooped four Academy Award nominations including Best Director and Best Screenplay for Ingmar Bergman, Best Costume Design, and ultimately, won the award for Best Cinematography.

Quotes

• "Is it really so disgusting that soon I shall allow myself to die?" - Agnes
• "Love isolates. It does not bind, for it's lust that binds." - Karin
• "Oh, you think you're so strong. But you're not." - Maria to Anna

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's original score is by Johann Sebastian Bach, which deeply resonates with the movie's tone.
• The poignant piano score sets the tone for the movie, reflecting the anguish, despair and resonance in the storyline.