Max von Sydow stars as Dr. Vogler, a nineteenth-century traveling mesmerist and peddler of potions and magic lantern performances whose methods are put to the test in Stockholm by the cruel, eminently rational royal medical adviser Dr. Vergérus (Gunnar Bjornstrand). The interrogation turns into a nightmare for the scientist, who finds that old reason and logic are no match for the authentic mysteries of life. The character of Vogler, who makes his living from diverting his public yet stands at the mercy of their ridicule and disdain, can be seen as being illustrative of Bergman’s anxieties as a director.

The screening will be introduced by Tara Brady, writer and film critic at The Irish Times.

Notes by David O’Mahony.

This film screens as part of BETWEEN HEAVEN AND HELL: THE FILMS OF INGMAR BERGMAN.

See the full collection of films on IFI@Home, launching February 1st.