Fanny and Alexander

"The theatrical cut of "Fanny and Alexander" is one of my favorite films and a cinematic masterpiece. This is my first time watching the 312-minute television version which is, not only, universally considered the superior cut, but was also Ingmar Bergman’s preferred version. Is there a word for something that is even greater than a masterpiece? Because that's what this is. For Bergman to have cut nearly three hours from this for the theatrical version must have been a monumentally difficult task, because every interaction here seems essential. It is a heavyweight drama, which manages to feel both lean and rich, epic and intimate, and deeply moving without ever being sentimental. It has the space and patience of an old man’s reflections, but they are profound and not nostalgic. There are no rose-tinted glasses, only acute observations about the theatre of life, and the life of the theatre. This may be over five hours in length, but it flies by as if it were two. To view it in one sitting was effortless, so give your time to it, and, I promise you, you won’t feel an ounce of regret. The film stands as one of the great films about children, but even more so as a wonderful tribute to imagination through art, and its capacity to do more than merely imitate life, but to actually make it worth living."

"9/10. Bergman's swan song. Engaging, mystical, beautiful. Very unique mini series centered on a child in early 20th century Sweden, and his visions of ghosts, loving family and mean stepfather. For Bergman fans, serious cinephiles and foreign film aficionados. "

"Fanny & Alexander! Directed by Ingmar Bergman, somewhat autobiographical, this film stands as an allegory for our lives today. Love this movie & I hope you share your thoughts #movies https://www.instagram.com/tv/CXBtyT3pj9f/"