The Virgin Spring (1960)

Set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of 14th century Sweden, The Virgin Spring unfolds a deeply moving tale of innocence and revenge. The narrative centers around Karin, a pure and radiant maiden, who is the cherished daughter of a wealthy Christian landowner. Cocooned in affection and privilege, Karin is sent on a mission of faith to deliver prayer candles to the church, a journey that leads her into the heart of a dark and treacherous forest. Accompanying Karin is Ingeri, the family's expectant servant girl, who harbors a simmering jealousy and a steadfast belief in the ancient Norse gods. As the shadows of the forest close in, Karin, in her naïveté, abandons Ingeri, leading both girls to confront encounters that will forever scar their lives. In a cruel twist of fate, the strangers they meet are not just mere passersby. They are goat herders, guided by a pagan curse invoked by Ingeri, who commit an act of unthinkable brutality upon Karin, leaving her lifeless body in the woods and returning to her family's farm under the guise of seeking shelter. Unaware of the ghastly act committed by their new guests, Karin's parents extend their hospitality, only to discover the horrifying truth. The revelation ignites a fierce sense of justice within them, setting off a chilling chain of events as they exact a revenge as cold and unforgiving as the Swedish winter. The Virgin Spring is a riveting exploration of faith, betrayal, and the savage costs of vengeance, told through the lens of a time when the old world and the new collided.

The Virgin Spring is a drama movie featuring Max von Sydow.

The Virgin Spring is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy The Virgin Spring on Amazon Video and Apple TV.