How Bergman Humorously Explores Unconventional Themes in 'Smiles of a Summer Night' Film

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Sweden Reflection Paper: Smiles of a Summer Night
Ingmar Bergman’s Smiles of a Summer Night was a landmark achievement in 1955. After its premiere at Cannes the following year, it put Bergman on the map and opened up Swedish films for export into the international market. The comedy film entails couples who switch partners on a summer night. The humor in the movie emanates from Bergman’s ingenious juxtaposition of the characters, four men and four women, in a romantic frustration. The director uses humor to engage the audience. This paper examines how Bergman humorously explores unconventional themes, enabling the audience to understand his view on contentious issues.
Bergman brings a different perspective towards marriage. In the 1950s, the marriage institution was revered to the extent that most individuals would stay in unhappy relationships. Women, in particular, were expected to stick to their men, even when it was to their disadvantage. The film challenges the convention and brings a different perspective on what couples should do if their romance dies. The movie demonstrates that nothing is permanent in the game of love. Both men and women are free to leave unhappy relationships without any adverse effects. There are no wines or losers since all victories are ultimately defeats (Kael). For instance, she has not won much when Desiree Armfeldt wins back her old lover Fredrik Egerman. Desiree has caught Fredrik because he gave up. Hence he is a defeated individual (Bergman). Ideally, marriages are supposed to be contracts that bind the parties in boredom for a lifet...