A couple struggles to balance their relationship and their art in Bergman Island, the latest from writer/director Mia Hansen-Løve. While working on their latest screenplays, Tony and Chris take a vacation to the island where Ingmar Bergman lived and worked, hoping the proximity to the legendary filmmaker will inspire them. Chris is struggling more than Tony, as she has the lion’s share of caring for their child and can’t sink as deeply in her script as Tony. Frustrated, she cooks up a frustrated young woman of her own, which the island helps come to life.
This is an odd trailer to get a handle on as it has a low-key feel but also contains the fantastical element of Chris’ story being shown as if it were real events. It furthers speculation that this might have parallels to Hansen-Løve’s real life, who has made a number of well-received films but remains behind her former partner Olivier Assayas in international acclaim, with whom she has a child.
The extent to which fantasy and reality will meld is given away by the casting, with big names not just playing the core couple but Chris’ surrogate character as well. Vicky Krieps and Tim Roth play Chris and Tony, respectively, while Mia Wasikowska is Chris’ protagonist. Chances are this will be a heady stew on balancing artistic creation and everyday life. So maybe not for casual movie fans, but those enamored with the process will likely eat it up. Bergman Island is directed by Mia Hansen-Løve and stars Vicky Krieps, Tim Roth, and Mia Wasikowska.
It will be released in the US on October 15th, 2021. For international release dates, click here. Will you go on this less than relaxing vacation? Let us know in the comments!
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