Elvira Madigan (1967)

 Bo Widerberg's "Elvira Madigan"


There are many things to consider about Bo Widerberg's 1967 film "Elvira Madigan." Firstly, it is based on the true, yet tragic, story of circus performer Elvira Madigan and her relationship with Swedish nobleman Sixten Sparre. Secondly, the film's cinematography - full color - looks like a painting in every single frame. It is perhaps one of the most crisp and visually beautiful films I've seen in a while.

Elvira Madigan, the stage name of tightrope walker Hedvig Jensen, runs away with Swedish llieutenant Sixten Sparre in the Danish countryside. Elvira leaves behind her parents and circus act while Sixten leaves behind his wife and three children. He also is now a deserter of the Swedish army. The couple live in romantic bliss away from the pressures and hassles of society by sneaking around the countryside and staying in hotels and inns. However, their idyllic summer away from society slowly begins to grow sour as money and food grow scarce. 

Although the painterly imagery is far more satisfying than the thematic structure of the film, these themes are still worthy of consideration. At first, the distance from society is romantic and light - the oppressive restraints feel miles away. However, this cannot last. This sense of romanticism feels doomed and not lasting. 

That being said, the visual aesthetic of the film really makes it elevated to a whole other level. I could watch the moments of gleeful bliss between the couple for hours and hours due to the sheer beauty of the images. Jorgen Persson acted as cinematographer on the film, utilizing new color cinema to its fullest extent. The production crew was minimal and only consisted of eight people. Many of the shots were handheld and show with only natural light. The result are unapparelled - frame that take your breath away.

Overall, I really enjoyed "Elvira Madigan." It is a tender, but melancholic film that illustrates our internal desires for escaping society's structures - our pure yearning to return to nature. Its picturesque images will ignite a romantic fury in any viewer and leave you feeling readily desirable to lay out in the grass with the one you love.

 


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