The Best Intentions 1992
Directed by
Bille August
Made by
The Samuel Goldwyn Company
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of The Best Intentions (1992). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
In the early 20th century, Henrik Bergman is on a journey to become a parish minister within the Church of Sweden. His life takes a turn when he meets the wealthy Anna Åkerblom, introduced by his friend Ernst, Anna’s brother. Despite Anna’s vanity and perceived elitism, Henrik is drawn to her beauty and zest for life. Although he is in a sexual relationship with Frida, a waitress, Anna seduces him and proposes an engagement. As their relationship develops, Henrik discreetly continues his life with Frida. During a conversation with Anna’s mother, Karin, Henrik confesses his discomfort around the Åkerbloms. Karin candidly informs him that Anna would benefit from a more mature partner, implying that Henrik lacks the necessary qualities. She later shares with Anna that Henrik is still involved with Frida, leading to a halt in Henrik and Anna’s romantic rendezvous until Frida, concerned for Henrik’s unhappiness, persuades Anna to take him back.
While Anna seeks treatment for tuberculosis in Switzerland, a family member is dispatched to inform Henrik that she wishes to cut ties. Unknown to her parents, Anna sends a letter via Ernst to Henrik, expressing her desire to rekindle their relationship. Unfortunately, her father Johan discovers and destroys the letter, and when he passes away, Karin confesses her deed to Anna, who is enraged and seeks out Henrik. At that point, Henrik is set to move to Forsboda, a secluded village in northern Sweden for his new parish position, which is still under the care of an elderly and ailing minister. Anna decides to join him, and they marry despite societal class tensions.
Once settled in Forsboda, the couple welcomes their first son, Dag. However, Henrik finds himself embroiled in local labor disputes, as he stands against poor working conditions and opens his church for socialist meetings. His actions irritate Nordenson, who disapproves of Henrik’s progressive teaching methods that challenge traditional norms. Amidst this, the Bergmans take in Petrus, a troubled orphan. Their lives take another turn when they are summoned to Stockholm to meet Queen Victoria, who wishes to appoint Henrik as a chaplain at Sophiahemmet Hospital. During this encounter, Henrik boldly states, > “suffering is useless and God views the world with horror,” leading to tensions with the royal expectations. The Bergmans decline the offer, but their decision infuriates the village residents who were not consulted and were hurt by Henrik’s disparagement of Nordenson during church service.
As Anna approaches her second pregnancy, she insists on sending Petrus away, stating she never agreed to adopt him and has growing aversion toward the boy. Overhearing the conversation leads Petrus to kidnap young Dag and attempt to escape to an icy river. The Bergmans witness the abduction and chase after them, with Henrik rescuing Dag, but the confrontation sends Petrus away in fury. In despair, Anna becomes determined to leave Forsboda, taking Dag back to the Åkerblom home. Eventually, Henrik decides to accept the position in Stockholm and pleads for Anna to join him, to which she enthusiastically responds that it’s what she has always wanted.
Timeline
Track the key events of The Best Intentions (1992) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Henrik's Aspiration
In the early 20th century, Henrik Bergman begins his journey towards becoming a parish minister within the Church of Sweden. This ambition sets the stage for the dramatic events that will unfold in his life.
Meeting Anna
Henrik's life takes a significant turn when he is introduced to Anna Åkerblom by his friend Ernst. Despite Anna's vanity, Henrik is captivated by her beauty and vivaciousness, sparking a complicated relationship.
Romantic Entanglement
Though Henrik is in a sexual relationship with Frida, a waitress, he becomes romantically involved with Anna. This introduces tension as Henrik navigates his growing feelings for Anna while still maintaining ties with Frida.
Confession to Karin
During a conversation with Anna's mother, Karin, Henrik expresses his discomfort around the Åkerbloms. Karin bluntly suggests that Anna would benefit from a more mature partner, which leaves Henrik feeling inadequate.
A Halt in Romance
Karin informs Anna about Henrik's ongoing relationship with Frida, leading Anna to distance herself from Henrik. This brief separation is only resolved when Frida urges Anna to reconcile with Henrik for his own happiness.
Anna's Health Crisis
As Anna seeks treatment for tuberculosis in Switzerland, she decides to sever ties with Henrik. However, through her brother Ernst, she sends a letter to Henrik, expressing her longing for their relationship.
Letter Destroyed
Anna's father, Johan, discovers the letter and destroys it, concealing Anna's feelings from her. After Johan's passing, Karin confesses her actions to Anna, igniting her anger and prompting a search for Henrik.
Move to Forsboda
Henrik prepares to relocate to the secluded village of Forsboda for his new parish position. Unbeknownst to him, Anna decides to join him, leading to their marriage amidst societal class tensions.
Welcoming Dag
Once settled in Forsboda, Henrik and Anna welcome their first son, Dag. However, Henrik soon finds himself entangled in local labor disputes as he advocates for better working conditions.
Tensions with Nordenson
Henrik's progressive methods clash with traditional values, particularly with Nordenson, who is incensed by Henrik's actions. This growing rift highlights the conflict between Henrik's social ideals and the expectations of the village.
Summoned to Stockholm
The Bergmans are summoned to Stockholm to meet Queen Victoria, who wishes to appoint Henrik as chaplain at Sophiahemmet Hospital. This prestigious recognition puts Henrik under royal scrutiny, leading to a pivotal confrontation.
Henrik's Bold Stance
During the meeting, Henrik expresses his controversial belief that 'suffering is useless', which shocks the royal family. His outspokenness causes tensions that ultimately lead to their declining the position, angering the villagers.
Petrus the Orphan
As Anna approaches her second pregnancy, she insists on sending Petrus, a troubled orphan they took in, away from their home. This decision creates an emotional upheaval that leads to dire consequences for the family.
The Kidnapping
Petrus, feeling rejected, kidnaps young Dag and attempts to escape. This alarming event prompts Henrik and Anna to chase after them, showcasing the escalating tensions in their household.
A New Beginning
Following the turmoil, Henrik resolves to accept a new position in Stockholm. He pleads for Anna to join him, and she joyfully agrees, revealing a shared desire for a fresh start away from the troubles of Forsboda.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring The Best Intentions (1992) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Henrik Bergman
Henrik is a passionate and conflicted character whose journey to become a parish minister is marked by personal and ethical dilemmas. His initial charm becomes overshadowed by his involvement in a love triangle and his quest for social justice. Despite his good intentions, Henrik often finds himself at odds with societal norms and familial expectations.
Anna Åkerblom
Anna is a complex figure, initially portrayed as vain and elitist but reveals depth and vulnerability as her story unfolds. Her relationship with Henrik highlights her struggles with societal expectations and personal desire. Anna’s character evolves as she faces the consequences of her choices and the pressures of motherhood.
Frida
Frida is a waitress who becomes involved with Henrik, embodying simplicity and earnestness in contrast to Anna's complexity. Her genuine love for Henrik is tested as she navigates the pain of infidelity and societal judgments. Frida's character provides insight into the struggles faced by women of the time.
Petrus
Petrus is a troubled orphan taken in by the Bergmans, representing the impact of abandonment and societal neglect. His actions stem from feelings of rejection, showcasing the raw emotions of a child in turmoil. His character serves as a catalyst for conflict within the Bergman family.
Setting
Uncover the settings of The Best Intentions (1992), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
Early 20th century
The early 20th century was a time of social change and upheaval, particularly in Europe. The period saw movements advocating for workers' rights, suffrage, and significant shifts in societal norms. This backdrop heavily influences Henrik's struggles as a progressive figure within the Church of Sweden, as well as his challenges in personal relationships.
Location
Forsboda, Sweden, Switzerland, Stockholm
Forsboda is a secluded village in northern Sweden, known for its quiet, pastoral setting. The village becomes the backdrop for the lives of Henrik and Anna as they navigate their evolving relationship. Their journey also takes them to Switzerland, highlighting the contrasting landscapes and challenges faced, and ultimately ends in the bustling urbanity of Stockholm, where they encounter royal expectations.
Themes
Explore the core themes of The Best Intentions (1992). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Love & Betrayal
The intricate web of love and betrayal is a central theme, as Henrik is torn between his affection for Anna and his relationship with Frida. The dynamics of social class create tension, illuminating the sacrifices made for love. This theme explores the impact of societal expectations on personal relationships.
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Social Justice
Henrik’s involvement in local labor disputes emphasizes the theme of social justice. His willingness to advocate for the poor illustrates a clash between progressive ideals and traditional values. The church's role in social issues reflects the broader societal debates of the time.
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Family Dynamics
Family relationships and the concept of belonging are significant themes; Anna's maternal instincts are challenged by her feelings towards Petrus, an orphan taken in by the Bergmans. This struggle illustrates the complexities of motherhood and the tensions within family structures during times of change.
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