The Ox
The Ox

Movie spotlight

The Ox

1991
Movie
92 min
Swedish

In desperation brought on by near-starvation, Helge Roos kills his master's ox to feed his wife and baby daughter, setting off a devastating and unexpected chain of events.

Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Director: Sven NykvistGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In 19th century Sweden, a struggling farmer named Sven must confront his past and his troubled relationship with his father. As he tries to rebuild his life and care for his family, he grapples with poverty, hardship, and the harsh realities of rural existence. The film is a stark portrayal of resilience and the enduring human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Critical Reception

The Ox was critically acclaimed for its powerful performances and unflinching depiction of rural poverty and struggle. It was praised for its authentic atmosphere and its sensitive exploration of complex family dynamics. Critics lauded director Sven Nykvist's masterful visual storytelling and the film's raw emotional impact.

What Reviewers Say

  • A somber yet compelling drama about the struggles of rural life.

  • Stellan Skarsgård delivers a powerful and nuanced performance.

  • Visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Google audience: Audience reception information for 'The Ox' on Google is not readily available.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the novel 'Oxen' by Lars Klinting, and was directed by the legendary cinematographer Sven Nykvist, marking his directorial debut in feature films.

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