Synopsis

Hedvig Jensen, a famous tightrope walker, is also known as Elvira Madigan. She meets Lieutenant Sixten Spar, a Swedish officer with a wife and two children, and together they go on the run. However, trials lie ahead when Sixten is unable to find work as a deserter. While on the run, Sixten meets a friend who convinces him to return to his country and family.

Program Note

"Naturally, Swedish cinema is dominated by Ingmar Bergman, and many notable Swedish directors have not seen the light of day in Bergman's shadow. But in fact, 'Elvira Madigan' is a masterpiece, full of warmth, love and a great aesthetic of humanity, nature and landscape. What makes the movie most poignant is its use of music, namely Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major, which is repeatedly played. The movie's powerful aftermath is why the concerto soon became known as the 'Elvira Madigan'." (Mike Figgis)

Director

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  • Bo Widerberg