The Devil's Eye sets itself up as a movie in which a narrator shows a play to the audience, with a bit of commentary between acts. Some viewers may not like the structure, but it paves the way for a comedy with a very Shakespearean feel. The settings - particularly in Hell - have the feel of actors and props entering and exiting the stage, and even aspects of the acting tend towards the more exaggerated actions and expressions of the theater.
Once you've settled into this unusual presentation for a movie, the execution is quite enjoyable. The dialogue is witty and often funny, the characters are enjoyable to watch - particularly the Vicar - and the narrative arc unfolds efficiently without being boring or too sappy.
Overall, it was a pleasant surprise to watch. Having seen a number of other Bergman movies, I went into this "Bergman comedy" with some trepidation, but he made a winner with this odd little film.
Once you've settled into this unusual presentation for a movie, the execution is quite enjoyable. The dialogue is witty and often funny, the characters are enjoyable to watch - particularly the Vicar - and the narrative arc unfolds efficiently without being boring or too sappy.
Overall, it was a pleasant surprise to watch. Having seen a number of other Bergman movies, I went into this "Bergman comedy" with some trepidation, but he made a winner with this odd little film.