Watch Elvira Madigan

Elvira Madigan is a Swedish romantic drama film released in 1967, directed by Bo Widerberg. The movie is based on the real-life love story of Elvira Madigan and Sixten Sparre, set in the late 19th century. The movie tells the story of Elvira (played by Pia Degermark), a talented tightrope walker in a traveling circus, who falls in love with Sixten Sparre (played by Thommy Berggren), a lieutenant in the army. Sixten is already married with children, but he decides to leave his family and elope with Elvira. The couple runs away to Denmark, where they spend a few blissful weeks together, living in a rustic cabin by the sea. They indulge in their ionate love and their artistic pursuits, Elvira playing the piano and Sixten painting.

Their idyllic existence is soon disrupted by the harsh reality of their situation. Sixten is pursued by the authorities, who want to punish him for deserting the army. Elvira's talent does not suffice to earn a living for both of them, and they soon run out of money. They become desperate, resorting to begging and stealing to survive.

The beauty of their love, however, remains unblemished. Elvira and Sixten cling to each other, reaffirming their ion and devotion for one another, even as their situation continues to deteriorate. The movie portrays their love as pure and timeless, following them as they wander through the Danish countryside, enjoying their fleeting moments of happiness.

The cinematography of the movie is stunning, capturing the sublime beauty of the natural landscapes and the tender intimacy of the two lovers. The score is also noteworthy, featuring Mozart's well-known Piano Concerto No. 21 and a haunting original soundtrack by Bengt Ernryd.

Elvira Madigan was highly acclaimed upon its release, winning awards at various film festivals, including the Cannes Film Festival. Pia Degermark's portrayal of Elvira earned her a Best Actress award at Cannes and catapulted her to international stardom. The movie has since become a classic, praised for its poetic and melancholic portrayal of love.

Overall, Elvira Madigan is a moving and beautifully crafted movie, a tribute to the power of love and the human spirit. Its tragic ending is one that remains etched in the memory and leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.