The Lion and the Virgin

Synopsis

The Lion and the Virgin (Lejonet och Jungfrun) is a 1975 Swedish drama directed by Lars-Magnus Lindgren, featuring Sven-Bertil Taube in a compelling lead role. The film explores the intense and evolving relationship between a Swedish teacher and a young girl in Tunisia, set against a backdrop of cultural contrasts and personal discovery. It delves into themes of passion, freedom, and social norms, capturing the complexities of human emotions and intercultural connections. With evocative cinematography and a contemplative narrative, the movie offers a nuanced look at love and societal expectations during the time.

Cast

• 

  Sven-Bertil Taube

  Lars-Erik ''Leo'' Olsson

• 

  Agneta Eckemyr

  Virgo

• 

  Michel Duchaussoy

  Philippe

• 

  Sven Lindberg

  Nato

• Per Edström

  Johan

• Karl-Erik Welin

  Jan-Arthur

Reviews

Critically, The Lion and the Virgin received a mixed yet thoughtful reception. While not widely reviewed on major platforms like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic due to its age and limited international release, IMDb users have given it an average rating around 6.5/10, reflecting moderate appreciation. Many critics praise Sven-Bertil Taube’s performance for its subtlety and depth, with some highlighting the film's atmospheric portrayal of Tunisia's landscapes and the emotional undercurrents between characters. However, some reviews critique the pacing as slow and the plot as somewhat predictable, noting that the film may not appeal to viewers unfamiliar with European art-house cinema conventions. Overall, it is regarded as a culturally rich, if uneven, exploration of cross-cultural relationships, offering thought-provoking moments despite its flaws.