Anyone who's familiar with cinema would have heard of the great Swedish cinematographer Sven Nykvist. A humanist toward actors and a friend to crew members it's obvious from his son Carl Nykvist's documentary Light Keeps Me Company, that Sven is a likeable guy.
Like most documentaries, Carl Nykvist's film is also chalked full of interviews of prominent actors, crew members, directors as well as, family members. While the interviews with such Swedish cinema luminaries as Igmar Bergman, Liv Ullman, Bibi Anderson and Harriett Andersson as well as, Americans Woody Allen and Gena Rowlands are entertaining, the dramatic arc of the documentary that touches upon crucial moments in the photographer's life proves more poignant.
However, the story of Siddartha that is narrated throughout the documentary tends to interrupt the flow of the dominant narrative. Yes, it's true that Nykvist's life parallels his favorite novel, but a little would go a long way here.
Light Keeps Me Company is a must see for cinema enthusiasts. It might even prove educational as well as entertaining for some viewers. Learn a little cinematic history and honor a great master of light.
Like most documentaries, Carl Nykvist's film is also chalked full of interviews of prominent actors, crew members, directors as well as, family members. While the interviews with such Swedish cinema luminaries as Igmar Bergman, Liv Ullman, Bibi Anderson and Harriett Andersson as well as, Americans Woody Allen and Gena Rowlands are entertaining, the dramatic arc of the documentary that touches upon crucial moments in the photographer's life proves more poignant.
However, the story of Siddartha that is narrated throughout the documentary tends to interrupt the flow of the dominant narrative. Yes, it's true that Nykvist's life parallels his favorite novel, but a little would go a long way here.
Light Keeps Me Company is a must see for cinema enthusiasts. It might even prove educational as well as entertaining for some viewers. Learn a little cinematic history and honor a great master of light.