Wild Strawberries (1957)
(unrated) 91 mins

There are a lot of films that go for pure entertainment; once the credits roll you already begin to forget the details of what you just watched. And then there’s films like ‘Wild Strawberries,’ which is quite the opposite. The film itself is fairly simple: an old man goes on a long trip to receive an award and reflects upon his life.

That kind of sums up the entire film, really. In that respect, one can imagine the film to be boring. But in a way, it’s fascinating. We watch as Isak looks back at his younger days and we see firsthand (sort of) the effect he’s had on those around him (and in a way, vice-versa). We really get to know Isak through his interactions with people he meets on his trip and flashbacks to events that happened long ago. Furthermore, one can’t help but be happy for the guy as he (sort of) mends important relationships. And as he reflects, so do we. Not just on his life, but our own. I realize that’s hard to convey in the era of 3D explosions, but it truly is remarkable.

+3