Film Review: the Seventh Seal (1957)

Plot Summary:
A knight returning home from the crusades in the 14^th century has a chance encounter with the Grim Reaper.

Review:
Anyone for a good game of chess? The Seventh Seal is a story of a noble man Antonius Block played by Max von Sydow and his squire who encounter Death (Bengt Ekerot) as they are returning home from the Crusades. And although they left with the intention of defending the Church and its beliefs, they are left questioning their own existence and life's meaning. To stave off the inevitable, the knight challenges the Grim Reaper to a game of chess in order to gain some more time as he seeks the knowledge he so desires. Along the way, they encounter others who join them as they make their way through the countryside to his castle. Oh by the way, the Black Plague is happening and people are dying by the hundreds everyday. This sets the tone throughout the film.

Shot entirely in black and white, The Seventh Seal is a compelling and insightful film about one's quest to achieve a higher understanding of the meaning of life and the purpose of man's being. Although the movie is more than 50 years old, the themes still resonate in this modern day and age. Everyone's time is limited and nobody knows for sure how long they will be around. The central character only realizes this only after death comes a' knocking. The gloominess is heightened by the fact that the Black Plague looms over everyone. People are panicking and scared. Bergman gives the audience a bird's eye view of all that afflicts each person. The cinematography is incredible. The black and white shows the contrast between light and dark as well as life and death. The technique was very effective in telling the story.

Is Antonius really trying to cheat Death? Unfortunately, time is all he really needs. There are some really important scenes which help him understand life, death, and the existence of God. Most notably: the interactions with the supposed witch set to burn at the stake, at the Church when he gives what would seem to be a confession, the scene with the townspeople when the procession of monks are chanting and condemning all those within earshot, and finally at the castle during the torrential downpour. All of these situations help the character build a wider perspective about his existence. The interactions with the Grim Reaper are merely a ploy. It is good that the Reaper has the time to spare. It is a bit ironic since all his customers are out of time.

The Seventh Seal is one of the greatest films of all time. There are no car chases, no comedic relief, etc. It is simply an attempt to provide a glimpse into what drives mankind, a story looking into the inner self at the core of our being. It is a stark reminder of our mortality and our limited time in this world.

Special Note: If you feel a bit depressed after watching this film, go grab a copy of Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991).

Mike's Rating: 9 out of 10 Knight Takes Queen...Check
MPAA Rating: Not Rated but would probably warrant a PG-13 for an overwhelming sense of dread and mature subject matter
Running Time: 1 hour 32 minutes