Pagten

I see loads of films, esp intl films...this one kept me engaged moment by moment. Suspenseful and compelling. Some fabulous dialogue/writing, wrote some of the quotes down for later. Thus, inspiring for my own introspection. If you enjoy psychology and insight, this one hits the bell. Very good!!

Birthe was fantastic in the role as Tanne. Her acting was as always amazing, her tone of voice was perfect, I felt myself go into to a "trance" watching and listing with Extreme focus, because her voice was so mellow yet the words so manipulating, it was drawing.

The movie was well written, neither to short or to long, it was heavy but not pulling the mood down, it leaves you with just the perfect amount of afterthoughts.

I really like this theme, and if have watched and liked the movie "En frygtelig kvinde" I think you'll also love this movie - just like I did.

Movie has great actors, and it is shot beautifully.

So in theory it should be a great movie.

However it is long drawn out. There is no tension in the movie. Each time you think something is going to happen -nothing happens.

A movie I struggled to stay awake in movie theater.

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie; captivating performances by the entire cast and thoughtful technical execution throughout.

But what truly makes this film stand out is it's commitment to the story, with every element of every scene working to explore the core themes of Pagten. I was not familiar with Blixen before seeing this film, but judging by her portrayal within, it seems a fitting tribute to a woman so profoundly committed to the art of storytelling.

Without giving too much away, I particularly enjoyed the use of light, as Blixen's influence waxed and waned, it felt as though she was the moon reflecting the light of some higher power onto those she orbited; casting some in shadow and illuminating others, but never for too long. A beautiful metaphor that rings true throughout and tickles the mind long after the credits have rolled.

Kudos as well to the sound design and musical director for excellent choices and attention to detail. The transition of the main theme, from diegetic to scoring a montage was done beautifully; the crackle of the phonograph dying out seamlessly in spite of the slow but steady pacing.

I hoped that this movie would give me more insights in the later life of Karen Blixen, but the story is really moving nowhere, and becomes a fight for the viewer whether to keep watching or giving up.

The photography is fantastic, but the storytelling is way to slow. The characters are never shining, and becomes way to dark.