A Woman's Face

A Woman's Face (En kvinnas ansikte) is a compelling Swedish drama from 1938 starring Ingrid Bergman. The film follows Anna Holm, a woman whose facial disfigurement has left her ostracized and embittered. As she becomes involved in a deceptive scheme, Anna confronts her troubled past and struggles with themes of identity, redemption, and transformation. The narrative delves deeply into psychological complexity, exploring human emotions and the longing for acceptance beyond physical appearance. Bergman's powerful performance elevates the film's poignant exploration of personal pain and the possibility of change, making it a classic of Swedish cinema.

A Woman's Face has been generally well-received by critics, with particular praise directed at Ingrid Bergman's compelling and nuanced performance. On IMDb, the film holds a solid rating of 7.0/10, indicating favorable viewer reception over the years. Critics have highlighted the movie's intense character study and its exploration of themes such as inner beauty and redemption, which were impactful in the context of 1930s cinema. Some reviews from classic film commentators note that while the pacing can feel deliberate compared to modern standards, the emotional depth and Bergman’s portrayal make the film memorable. For example, film historian Leonard Maltin commented on the film's 'haunting mood and Bergman’s transformative acting,' appreciating its psychological depth. However, some modern viewers have pointed out that the film’s style and narrative structure reflect its time, which might seem slow or overly theatrical to contemporary audiences. Despite this, many agree that A Woman’s Face remains a significant work for its thematic boldness and Bergman’s early showcase of her talent. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a contemporary critic consensus for this film, reflecting its status as a classic less commonly reviewed in modern aggregators, but audience retrospectives affirm its lasting impact in classic film circles.