maxbatista-82428

Most reviews already say many things I would say. I had postponed viewing the series fearing stereotypical situations, personalities; fictitious characters, third rate chess, artificial heroes and villains.... We've seen that. Then I discovered how wrong I had been. In spite of the goofs already spotted, I find that they are not significant enough to detract from the merit and substance of the production. I found myself descending into the depth of pain and despair Beth experiences as she surrenders to the effects of damaging habits. I even spotted a striking metaphor when she and colleagues indulge in an abundance of froth at the bar - for some reason, they start moving empty bottles as though they were chess pieces! Yes, our heroes in drama touch our hearts when they show how human and frail they can be. This, to me, is comforting.

How unfair to dub Mozart's K467 as the 'Elvira M' concert! Ugh! - this story is so bland and pointless it eclipses the technical merits of the production (for those who can find any). No moral conclusions; none intended, I guess. No emotional resolution other than wysiwyg - no appeal to empathize with either character - nobody wins - does anybody lose? As for color cinematography and landscape, I choose Van Gogh. And I restate my personal view: appropriating a gem like Mozart's masterpiece, even if only a few seconds of it, repeated ad nauseam, is nothing short of grand larceny. A sneaky way of attaching class where nothing merits class.

Not pretentious, no loud message - just a candid slice of life at just that crucial stage when things can go very sweet and warm... or just the opposite. Ulla Jacobsson's presence carries a large slice of credit for the success of this film. Much like in 'Smiles of a summer night' (which as a musical left its own imprint via 'Send in the clowns'). Unforgettable sound track with charming folk songs. Cast very appropriately portray hypocrisy, be it social or religious - without falling into trite clichés or advocating the chaotic attack against acceptable moral norms soon to spread throughout. With due respect to those who might find it offensive, the original 'shock' caused by the brief scene of skinny dipping pales in comparison with the avalanche of loud, explicit productions that surged in the decades to follow.