JAN Troell has been making movies in Sweden (with a brief stint in the United States) since 1962, often doing his own writing and lensing. Truly a Renaissance man.
He’s even been mentioned in the same breath as the great Bergman. Still, most moviegoers would look perplexed if asked about Troell.
His “Everlasting Moments,” opening today, can serve as an introduction to the director.
It’s the early 20th century, and Maria (Maria Heiskanen) is struggling to survive as the mother of seven children and the wife of a drunken, abusive dockworker (Mikael Persbrandt).
Eventually, she finds strength as a photographer, using a camera she won in a lottery years earlier. She also attracts the attention of a male photographer who encourages her.
Troell is in no rush. He meanders along so he can savor every moment, and he wants the audience to do likewise.
Heiskanen is a revelation as the put-upon wife, and the cinematography (some by Troell) effortlessly transports us back 100 years.
In Swedish, with English subtitles. Running time: 132 minutes. Not rated (violence). At the Lincoln Plaza and the Sunshine.