An Early Masterpiece

In Sommaren Med Monika (Summer With Monika), 1952, the most outstanding thing in this fine film was Harriet Andersson's playing of the sensual heroine Monica, a girl who marries the boy with whom she spent her summer holiday when she learns she is pregnant. Her temperament makes it impossible for her to face the routine and humdrum existence of married life and she is unfaithful to her husband. They finally part, she leaving the child with Harry, along with his memories of the past and her betrayal.

Though some of Bergman's lately released earlier-made films have been severely mauled by the English critics, Peter John Dyer of Films and Filming (a critic who can be more irrational, savage and nasty than Time if he wants to) said of this film "Every moment the lovers are on the screen, one is gripped by the analysis and shock power of Bergman's observation ... with Bergman's strong sense of atmosphere to lend a discreet lyricism and grace to the performances, the film achieves a genuine individuality."

Harriet Andersson also starred in Bergman's production of Gycklamas Afton (Sawdust and Tinsel) the following year. Gunnar Bjornstrand also appeared in it, and Ake Gronberg, who played a small part in the previous film, now had a major role.