Winter Light (1963)

Amid a harsh winter's embrace, Winter Light unfolds the tale of Tomas Ericsson, the pastor of a humble rural church. His faith is as frostbitten as the landscape, mirroring the biting cold that sweeps across the small community he serves. Every Sunday, despite his personal struggle with a severe crisis of faith and the relentless grip of a cold, he dutifully performs service for a dwindling congregation. His spiritual turmoil intersects with the life of Jonas Persson, a fisherman ensnared by the claws of anxiety. Tomas, entangled in his own crisis, can only offer him a reflection of his troubled relationship with God, rather than the comfort Jonas seeks. Amid this frosty spiritual landscape, a ray of warmth appears in the form of Maerta Lundberg, a schoolteacher who offers her love as a balm for Tomas's fractured faith. However, Tomas is as resistant to her affection as the ice is to the sun. Despite her persistent offerings, he remains ensnared in his spiritual conundrum, teetering on the precipice of belief and disbelief. As he grapples with his bonds to a God he isn't entirely convinced exists, Tomas embarks on a journey of self-discovery. He engages in profound discussions with those firmly rooted in faith and those drifting in doubt, seeking to rediscover the essence of love and faith in the chilling winter landscape. Winter Light is the second jewel in Bergman's trilogy that delves into the intricate labyrinth of man's relationship with God. It is a thought-provoking exploration of faith, love, and existential angst set against the stark yet captivating backdrop of winter.

Winter Light is a drama movie featuring Gunnar Björnstrand.

Winter Light is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy Winter Light on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.