Things come full circle here in a satisfying way. All the time spent on the family members in the first episode gets paid off here, as the family clashes with Edvard at last, and seeing him get yelled at by one of Oscar's brothers proved enjoyable to watch (even if the slimy devil came out on top by the scene's end).
The fantastical elements also make a return in full force during this dramatic final act. I don't remember how much they were part of the theatrical version, but it adds an interesting extra element here either way.
Overall, I think this is even better than the theatrical version. It moves well considering it's about five hours long, and the vast majority of scenes here felt important and not worth cutting (though I do remember the shorter cut also feeling fairly complete at the time, and still a very good watch).
At least as far as this extended cut goes, I feel pretty confident in saying this is Ingmar Bergman's best film, and well worth dedicating an afternoon to.
The fantastical elements also make a return in full force during this dramatic final act. I don't remember how much they were part of the theatrical version, but it adds an interesting extra element here either way.
Overall, I think this is even better than the theatrical version. It moves well considering it's about five hours long, and the vast majority of scenes here felt important and not worth cutting (though I do remember the shorter cut also feeling fairly complete at the time, and still a very good watch).
At least as far as this extended cut goes, I feel pretty confident in saying this is Ingmar Bergman's best film, and well worth dedicating an afternoon to.
