Bergman’s second film combines earnest Capra-esque melodrama with rainstorm miserablism and the result is oddly warm. The sentiment feels out of place (especially for Bergman) but the story is surprisingly enjoyable. 

Even if a bit too polished, the film foreshadows a big theme that will haunt Bergman’s work: Young people oppressed by authoritative figures who escape to semi-fairytale worlds to cope, rebuild, and eventually return to responsibility.

Doesn’t quite embrace the tortured energy of its characters (who have to suffer with a lot), but it’s nevertheless well-told, well-paced, and holds a unique place in the director’s otherwise gloomy canon.

Bergman Ranked