Saraband is a commandingly restrained final composition and -- as the theme of classical musicianship suggests -- very much an affair of close attention to the nuances of performance.

With Saraband, the great writer-director has stepped back into the ring for one last epic wrestle with his demons. There is, as always, no easy outcome. But no one ever fought for higher emotional and spiritual stakes.

A parlour-room theatre of emotional cruelty, with all exits barred by the past.

Certainly Bergman is what he is: the great man, with almost countless films to his credit.