The movie is a sequel to Bergman's Scenes from a Marriage (1973), where we revisit the characters of Johan and Marianne, then a married couple. After their divorce, Johan and Marianne haven't seen each other for 32 years. Marianne is still working, as a divorce lawyer. Johan is quite well off and has retired to a house in the Orsa finnmark district of Sweden. On a whim, Marianne decides to visit him. Johan's son from a previous marriage, Henrik, lives nearby in a cottage with his daughter Karin, a gifted cello player. The relationship between father and son is strained. Plot by Mattias Thuresson.
A stunning and complex final bow from a stunning and complex artist.
– Eleanor Ringel Gillespie,
Atlanta Journal-Constitution,
11 Aug 2005
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For those inclined to search for psychological twists, the film offers plenty of Freudian situations capable of provoking lengthy discussions. For the film buff, the discussions will turn to a Bergman still at the peak of his craft.
– Marta Barber,
Miami Herald,
12 Aug 2005
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The performances -- welling, unified and multidimensional -- are beyond praise, as are Bergman's visual images.
– Tim Page,
Washington Post,
9 Sep 2005
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While bringing an abundance of inspiration to this world, Bergman unapologetically refused to ignore the pain and darkness that infects mankind. There will never be another filmmaker like him.
– Terry Lawson,
Detroit Free Press,
2 Dec 2005
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With Saraband, the great writer-director has stepped back into the ring for one last epic wrestle with his demons. There is, as always, no easy outcome. But no one ever fought for higher emotional and spiritual stakes.