Sir Arne's Treasure

Authentic and atmospheric, "Sir Arne's Treasure" is a cleverly conceptualized Swedish silent film directed by Mauritz Stiller and released in 1919. The film features an intoxicating blend of passionate performances from actors Erik Stocklassa, Bror Berger, and Richard Lund, supplemented by the evocative cinematography that fully represents the bleakness and frigid expanses of the Scandinavian landscape.

Set during the winter of 1565 in the local parish of Solberga on the south-east coast of Sweden, the film's narrative weaves around a rich pastor, Sir Arne (played by Richard Lund), his family, and a treasure that they possess. Sir Arne's treasure has been amassed through the blessings of various pilgrims seeking shelter at the vicarage. The said treasure consists of chalices, crucifixes, and other religious artifacts made out of pure gold and silver.

Erik Stocklassa offers a compelling portrayal of a Scottish mercenary, Sir Archie, who arrives in the scene along with two other mercenaries. Enticed by the treasure's rumour, they brutally murder Sir Arne and his family except his maid Elsalill (portrayed by Mary Johnson), who manages to escape. Following the unnerving event, Erik's character adopts a seemingly low-profile lifestyle, pretending to be a humble fisherman in the local community. His complex emotional journey forms the core of the narrative.

On the other end stands the hauntingly beautiful maiden Elsalill, who is the only surviving witness to the horrific tragedy. Mourning the loss of her adoptive family and in shock, she unknowingly crosses paths with Sir Archie, unaware of his nefarious deeds, and a complicated romantic relationship develops between them. The sharp, icy air of fear, love, and deceit soon engulfs the narrative.

Bror Berger's role as Torarin, brother to Sir Archie, adds an intriguing dimension to the story. Seeing his brother embroiled in an inconvenient romance with Elsalill, Torarin piques audience interest as he battles his loyalty towards his brother and his conscience.

The oscillating emotions across the faces of the primary characters, their interaction with the harsh environment, and the storytelling brilliance of Mauritz Stiller come together to create a tense yet entrancing narrative in "Sir Arne's Treasure." However, the film is more than just a dramatic tale of lust, greed, love, and redemption. It is also a laconic portrayal of 16th-century Swedish life – the conventions, the customs, and the societal structure.

"Sir Arne's Treasure" is impressive in its technical aspects; the use of snow and ice-drenched landscapes contribute to creating an unusual sense of unease and foreboding, reflecting the characters' inner turmoil brilliantly.

The film's cinematography plays a vital role in transporting the audience back in time to the 16th century. Through the contrast between stark, white snow landscapes and the harsh living conditions of the inhabitants, the filmmakers invoke a sense of realism that enhances the overall narrative. The powerfully dramatic staging, intense close-ups, and marvelous compositions make each scene a gripping tableau, contributing to the unforgettable viewing experience.

The film also uses symbolism effectively, creating a tangible sense of dread and despair. Spectacular scenes against the grim Swedish winter play their part in the narrative, reflecting not just the physical but also the emotional climate of the situation.

Erik Stocklassa, as the complex Sir Archie, delivers a powerful performance, painting an evocative picture of a remorseful man caught in his brutal past and an unfamiliar affectionate present. Mary Johnson, as Elsalill, beautifully portrays the torment of a woman torn between love for the man she doesn't realize is her family's killer and her sense of justice.

"Sir Arne's Treasure" is a riveting cinematic journey that explores the depths of human emotions entangled in a web of love, deceit, morality, and revenge. Exceptionally envisioned by Mauritz Stiller, this silent film still resonates with audiences, transcending boundaries of time and language. It firmly stands as an epitome of early Swedish film making that successfully uses the silent cinema's language to its full potential.