“Persona”, interview with the actress Liv Ullmann

In the depths of an exclusive interview with Fred Film Radio at the 64th Festival dei Popoli, Liv Ullmann, the revered actress and director, intricately unfolds the tale of her collaboration with Ingmar Bergman and the everlasting influence of “Persona”

When reminiscing about those formative years, Ullmann reflects, “When I met him, I had been an actor for seven years and knew he was looked on as a genius. That’s what I thought, too. So when he said he would really like to have me in a film, and wrote Persona for Bibi Andersson and me, I was aware I was to work with an incredible man.”

This awareness, however, transcended mere acknowledgment. Ullmann, who initially perceived it as an opportunity to work with a cinematic genius, was oblivious to the transformative journey that lay ahead. “But I never knew it would mean I would be in 11 of his movies and direct some of his scripts. I had no idea it would mean a big change in my life.”

Discussing the preparation for her role in “Persona“, Ullmann reveals, “If I really feel the role inside, even if it’s very different from me, I will allow it to become a part of me. I’m very happy to work with great directors because they give you the words and the circumstances and then allow you to find the person within yourself. That’s how I work.”

As she contemplates the enduring allure of “Persona“, Ullmann articulates, “At that time – and maybe even today – it was a new kind of movie. Bibi and I were the best of friends and so free towards each other, and the love we felt was very easy to find.” The film, encapsulating a unique portrayal of intimacy between women, became a profound expression of Bergman’s inner musings through Ullmann’s on-screen presence.

Ullmann delves into the personal dimension of Bergman’s life, sharing, “He fell in love with one of the actresses making the movie. I think that love was part of it. He was in despair and suddenly he saw a new beginning.” This pivotal moment marked the end of Bergman’s former life, a transformative shift that went beyond the cinematic narrative.

In contemplating the societal reflections embedded in Persona, Ullmann observes, “I think the film does reflect how society’s perception of gender and identity has changed if we look for it. If we allow that to happen.” Yet, she notes the contemporary challenges of societal disconnect, stating, “But I think in many ways today we are closing our ears to other people’s moods and despair.”

The interview concludes on a note of awakening spurred by recent global events. Ullmann asserts, “But also this terrible war [in Ukraine] has woken people up. And once awakened they want to be a part of it, they want to help. They feel empathy for all the people who are suffering so much. It’s a terrible war, but good things happen in people; they understand things better. We are not alone. We are part of everything. We are not witnesses.“