The Most Significant Films in History: Story, Scenes, and Dialogue - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Ordet (1955)

Film Review: "Ordet" (1955)

Carl Theodor Dreyer's "Ordet" is a transcendent and spiritually profound cinematic masterpiece that delves into themes of faith, love, and the miraculous. With its meditative pacing, breathtaking cinematography, and emotionally charged performances, "Ordet" stands as a timeless work of art that leaves a profound impact on its audience.

Plot Summary:
"Ordet" is set in a remote Danish village and revolves around the Borgen family, who are torn apart by religious differences. The film follows the struggles of Mikkel Borgen (Emil Hass Christensen), a devout and traditional farmer, his atheist son Anders (Cay Kristiansen), and his other son Johannes (Preben Lerdorff Rye), who believes himself to be Jesus Christ. When Inger (Birgitte Federspiel), Anders' wife, becomes seriously ill, the family's faith and love are put to the ultimate test.

Significant Scenes:
1. The Prayer for Inger: The scene where Mikkel, a devout man, prays passionately for his daughter-in-law's recovery, is a powerful moment of faith and vulnerability.

2. Johannes' Revelation: The moment when Johannes experiences his divine revelation and declares himself to be Christ is a haunting and emotionally charged sequence that sets the tone for the film's exploration of faith and spirituality.

3. The Miracle of Inger's Resurrection: The climactic and emotionally shattering scene of Inger's resurrection is a miraculous and spiritually transcendent moment that leaves a profound impact on both the characters and the audience.

Significant Dialogues:
(Note: "Ordet" features contemplative and spiritually resonant dialogues that delve into matters of faith and existence.)

1. "Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe." - Mikkel Borgen: This line, spoken by Mikkel, encapsulates the film's exploration of faith and the human need for tangible evidence of the divine.

2. "Faith is not an achievement, it is a gift." - Pastor: This poignant line from the village pastor reflects the film's themes of faith as a profound and unexplained grace.

Emil Hass Christensen delivers a compelling and deeply moving performance as Mikkel Borgen, portraying the character's unwavering faith and deep inner conflict with authenticity. Preben Lerdorff Rye's portrayal of Johannes is haunting and mesmerizing, capturing the character's complex and tortured spiritual journey.

Dreyer's direction is masterful, with his use of long takes and sparse yet powerful imagery enhancing the film's meditative and contemplative atmosphere. The cinematography by Henning Bendtsen is breathtaking, capturing the beauty of the Danish countryside and adding a sense of ethereal beauty to the film.

In conclusion, "Ordet" is a spiritually profound and emotionally resonant cinematic masterpiece that invites deep introspection and contemplation. Carl Theodor Dreyer's masterful direction, combined with the exceptional performances of the cast, makes it a film that lingers in the minds and hearts of its viewers long after the credits roll. As a testament to the power of faith, love, and the miraculous, "Ordet" remains a timeless and spiritually enriching work of art that continues to be revered and celebrated by cinephiles and seekers of profound cinema.