It's too bad Johan didn't die in the end instead...
I absolutely love Bergman's films and many of his ideas, but I have always found this film and series very flawed mainly for one reason: Johan is completely unlikeable. There is nothing in his character to admire, to sympathize with, or anything. He's cruel, heartless, and just an old fashioned jerk. I found myself wanting to smash his face in most of the time and even more so in the sequel Saraband. There is still so much to love in this series, especially the stunning dialogue and cinematography of the whole thing. But, I cannot, and will not ever be able to consider this the masterpiece that so many have because of Johan's character. I have thought a long time about it and have thoroughly decided that he is in no way pitiable. There may have been a chance if he hadn't hit her. That scene in many ways ruined the movie for me. It's unbearable to watch after becoming so intimate with these characters. I really wish Johan had gotten it a lot worse and that she never went back to him. Sigh, well, I feel better now that I've finally got that off my chest. Just for good measure *beep* Johan.
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