Witchcraft Through the Ages (Haxan)
Unfortunately, in reviewing this film, the only copy I could get my hands on was the ‘Criterion Collection’ edition. This particular re-issue (much lauded by some odd people) has burdened the ancient film with a hot jazz soundtrack, as well as a tremulous narration by William S. Burroughs of all people. It’s not that I hate jazz (even though I do) but it just isn’t fitting with the film. It no more enlivens the movie than Green Day’s ‘American Idiot’ cd would complement a viewing of ‘Phantom of the Opera’. This unfortunate choice of presentation diffused any real impact the viewing could have had on me. (The Criterion dvd features a copy of the original film, but I only caught it on IFC.)
Keeping more with the film itself, it sort of bookends itself in a documentary fashion, becoming more of a general narrative in the middle. It features dramatizations of popular witch mythology as well as some personal episodes from the dark days of the Inquisition and the European witch hunts. The film isn’t for everyone; most of the subject matter is gruesome and off putting as it deals with misogynistic torture and some shockingly graphic (well, for the 20’s anyway) depictions of satanic orgies.
Even putting aside the distasteful theme, the film is confused and a bit dull.
I have heard some remark before as to the patronizing tone the film takes with the beliefs of our forbearers while, praising modern scientific advancements like psychoanalysis. (Yeah, nothing superstitious about penis envy and recovered memory theories!)
I have the distinct feeling that if I reviewed a version not so drenched in its own pretensions, I would find the film much more meaningful. As it is, ’Haxan’ an interesting (and very odd) period piece, which features some cool creepy makeup and visual effects. However, as artfully done as it is, I just didn’t enjoy viewing it. (Of course, I don’t really suppose one watches films about torture and evil in order to have fun.) With all the incredible silent films suddenly available on dvd, ‘Haxan’ just isn’t a must-see.
5.5
Slight revision, the CC dvd also contains the original, uncut Danish version, along with a tasteful classic score. Please see that version! I'd bump it up to a...
6.5