The Virgin Spring
Performance & Direction: The Virgin Spring Review
Last updated: February 28, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Virgin Spring (1960) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a SUPER HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Virgin Spring features a noteworthy lineup led by Max von Sydow . Supported by the likes of Birgitta Valberg and Gunnel Lindblom , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: The lead actors exhibit a remarkable range, navigating the emotional peaks and valleys of their respective characters with a precision that makes every motivation feel earned.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The Virgin Spring
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1960, The Virgin Spring is a Drama, History film directed by Ingmar Bergman. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Max von Sydow.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. Devout Christians Töre and Märeta send their only daughter, the virginal Karin, and their foster daughter, the unrepentant Ingeri, to deliver candles to a distant church. On their way through the woods, the girls encounter a group of savage goat herders who brutally rape and murder Karin as Ingeri remains hidden. When the killers unwittingly seek refuge in the farmhouse of Töre and Märeta, Töre plots a fitting revenge. The screenplay takes time to develop Max von Sydow's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The protagonist, portrayed by Max von Sydow, undergoes a meaningful transformation, with their journey feeling earned and emotionally resonant. Supporting characters are well-developed, each serving a purpose in the narrative.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: The Virgin Spring
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Ingmar Bergman, The Virgin Spring resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Max von Sydow, creating a memorable conclusion that audiences have responded to positively.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes in a way that feels organic to the story.
The final moments of The Virgin Spring demonstrate careful narrative planning, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Virgin Spring Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Virgin Spring draws heavily from documented historical records. As a drama, history film directed by Ingmar Bergman, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Max von Sydow's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, with attention to period detail and historical context.
Accuracy Assessment: The Virgin Spring successfully translates real events into compelling cinema. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Virgin Spring?
Highly Recommended For:
- Fans of Drama cinema looking for quality storytelling
- Viewers who appreciate emotionally resonant character studies and meaningful themes
- Anyone seeking a well-crafted film that delivers on its promises
Box Office Collection: The Virgin Spring
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $700.0K |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Top Cast: The Virgin Spring
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Where to Watch The Virgin Spring Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Criterion Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV Store
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreFandango At HomeThe Virgin Spring Parents Guide & Age Rating
1960 AdvisoryWondering about The Virgin Spring age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Virgin Spring is 90 minutes (1h 30m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.8/10, and global performance metrics, The Virgin Spring is classified as a SUPER HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1960 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Virgin Spring worth watching?
The Virgin Spring is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.8/10 and stands as a SUPER HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Virgin Spring parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Virgin Spring identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Virgin Spring?
The total duration of The Virgin Spring is 90 minutes, which is approximately 1h 30m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
