I will introduce two Swedish classics at Husets Biograf in Copenhagen on May 2nd. Well, the first one is actually a Swedish French co-production called “La Sorcière” (1956) and the second one is all-Swedish excellence: “Vaxdockan” (1962).
Here’s some more info, culled from Huset’s website:
A SATANIC WALPURGIS NIGHT DOUBLE FEATURE: In German folklore “Walpurgisnacht” (April 30) is traditionally believed to be the night witches meet on Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz Mountains. Come and help us celebrate the occassion with the screening of two satanically-tinged Swedish classics. Carl Abrahamsson, a freelance writer specializing in esoteric history and the occult, will be travelling down from Stockholm to introduce the program. A night not to be missed!
RESERVATIONS can be made via Husetsbio.reservation@mail.dk. Please include the name of the film and the number of reservations desired in the subject line of your e.mail, and you will receive a confirmation with further info. If you have other questions contact Jack, our house manager, at jack.stevenson@mail.dk, or via 20297013 as a second option.
18:30 = TICKET COUNTER & CAFE open / open seating / CASH ONLY! (50kr. for 1 film (either) and 70kr. for both films)
19.30 = THE BLONDE WITCH (“Häxan” aka “La Sorcière”) 1956, directed by André Michel, 97 min., / A romantic, naturalistic and beautifully photographed work infused with elegiac atmosphere reminescent of “Les Amants.” Complete with a haunting musical score and a beautiful female lead (Marina Vlady) who is persecuted as a witch by a village community in modern France (shot in Sweden), this is an original and moving 50’s masterpiece – a film about bigotry and intolerance presented with great power and poetry. And yet it ignites the spark of raw sexuality, or, as the New York Times concluded in its original interview in 1956: “It’s for people who go for wild girls.”
*INTERMISSION with welcome drink served
21:30 = THE DOLL, (“Vaxdockan”) 1962, directed by Arne Mattsson, 96 min., / It is the great Swedish actor, Per Oscarsson, cast as a lonely night watchman thirsting for love and recognition, who makes this dark drama work. Key line: “I have heard many strange things. I have been through a lot of strange things, but being accused of having seduced a mannequin… We all have our ideal woman. If you keep quiet about mine, so I’ll keep quiet about yours.” Join us for one of the great abnormal masterpieces of Swedish cinema!
