A Lesson in Love

A trifling and predictable story, but cleverly presented in non-linear fashion (the gradual revelation of the identity of the female train passenger is ingenious), and further elevated by Bergman's silky direction and the dazzling, lively Eva Dahlbeck (her face is perfection). *** out of 4.

As time escapes before our eyes, the gulf from partners easily prised, distractions from all sides empower, the scent of meadow's other flowers. The grass is always greener there, far more lush to sup, devour, but once you've stepped over the stile, can you return, to reconcile.

David attempts to recover a lost link with his wife Marianne as their relationship has floundered and that link has disappeared, in not the best piece of storytelling from the maestro, although Eva Dahlbeck is always worth devouring wherever she performs and whatever she is in, and Gunnar Björnstrand was never too shabby either.

Ingmar Bergman has many several superb movies. A Lesson In Love is not one of his best, or one of my favourites shall I say, but I found it to be a fine and very overlooked film in many ways. It looks wonderful, the cinematography is especially good in the picnic scene and the scenery and images are all stunning to watch. The script is cynical, charming and funny at the same time, while the story is lighter in tone than most Bergman but is well balanced also with intelligently explored issues within the family especially the tension between David and Nix. The flashbacks are very carefully calculated, and there are some standout scenes, like at the picnic, on the train and with the granddad. Bergman as ever directs superbly. It is the performances that make A Lesson in Love the charmer it is, aside from the writing that is. The ever elegant Eva Dahlbeck and Gunnar Bjornstrand give superb performances that gives A Lesson in Love that extra sparkle. Fellow Bergman regular Harriet Anderssen is also impressive, though went onto even better things. Overall, a charming and funny film, definitely recommended. 9/10 Bethany Cox

See the lighter side of Bergman in this movie. Marital difficulties and challenges are explored. Even though there's some food for thought, the movie stays on the surface and doesn't go into lenghty analysis. Reminded me about some of Eric Rohmer's films, but without the fine details. Not to worry though, Bergman's lesson in love is still worth watching. It's charming, but mostly funny. It makes for an enjoyable 90 minutes. Great job by the lead actors Gunnar Björnstrand, Eva Dahlbeck and the beautiful Yvonne Lombard. But I would agree with others that the last 30 seconds of the film are questionable.

Seen at home, in Toronto, on January 7th, 2006.

82/100 (***)

Faced with the inexplicably hostile response to 'Sawdust and Tinsel', Ingmar Bergman felt obliged to make something that would be of wider appeal and the result is a romantic comedy in which Gunner Bjornstrand and Eva Dahlbeck develop the chemistry and comedic timing they had shown in Bergman's earlier 'Waiting Women.' They certainly do justice to his sparkling and intelligent dialogue and he was fulsome in his praise of their invaluable contribution which convinced him that a 'collaborative' style of direction would achieve the best results. Bjornstrand of course remains one of Bergman's most renowned artistes whereas Miss Dahlbeck is alas, one of his most forgotten.

It would not be Bergman of course without a touch of the autobiographical. His affair with Harriet Andersson had broken up his marriage to his third wife who is probably the insiration for the character of Marianne and although he fundamentally believed in the married state, he was all too aware of his failings as a husband.

Bergman's intention here is 'to have fun at mine and my fellow human beings' expense.'

This delectable piece can be savoured as an hors d'oeuvre to the main course of 'Smiles of a Summer Night'.