The Cinema of Ingmar Bergman Film Series

Ingmar Bergman was one of the most influential film directors of all time, and his works have inspired a host of other filmmakers, including Woody Allen, whose reverence for Bergman is reflected in his own works. Bergman’s films evolved in several distinct stages over five decades and reverberate with psychological and philosophical themes that explore the depths of the human psyche.

This course will introduce participants to the major films of Bergman, beginning with his early productions in the 1950s and culminating half a century later. Among topics to be explored and discussed will be personal relationships, faith, identity, alienation and redemption.

If you have questions, comments or suggestions, feel free to contact me at 503 880 0941. Emails are likewise always welcome: thbirn@earthlink.net.

All films are in Swedish, with English subtitles. Our workshop will be conducted as a series of informal sessions in which we view, learn about and discuss the works below:

• September 29, Introduction: Crisis (1948)

• October 6: Thirst (1948)

• October 13: Smiles of a Summer Night (1955)

• October 20: Hour of the Wolf (1968)

• October 27: Autumn Sonata (1978)

• November 3: TBD

About the Instructor

Thomas Birnie holds a Ph.D. in German Literature, with a doctoral minor in Scandinavian Studies, from the University of Washington. He has taught Scandinavian subjects at Portland State University since 1990 and is actively engaged in Nordic events locally.

Cost

General Admission: $25

Member Admission: $20

Student: $22 (must present valid high school or college ID upon admittance)

Arts for All: $5 (must present valid Oregon Trail ETB card upon admittance)

Six-Film Bundle (General Admission): $140

Six-Film Bundle (Member Admission): $108