Many consider “Flash Gordon” (1980) to be Max von Sydow's finest work, but I believe this performance for Ingmar Bergman comes remarkably close! Set against the backdrop of the Black Death’s devastation, “Block” (MvS) returns from the Crusades alongside his squire “Jöns” (Gunnar Björnstrand), only to immediately face what seems like a perfectly reasonable personification of death. “Block” proposes a chess match with this figure (Bengt Ekerot), stipulating that he be allowed to live through the game and released if victorious. The game unfolds in segments, enabling the knight and his companion to journey across the land and witness firsthand how disease combined with religious conflict has ravaged a population struggling with poverty, fear, and superstition. As they attempt to reach their destinations, “Block” starts to question beliefs he previously held without reservation. A possible path toward redemption emerges when they join forces with a group of traveling performers, for whom he agrees to provide protection through a dangerous forest on the way to his castle. His connection with “Mia” (Bibi Andersson) and her husband “Jof” (Nils Poppe) may offer him what he needs to overcome his constant companion—if, after everything, he even desires to do so. The visuals are stark and impactful, while doubts about religion and the internal struggles of this honorable man are conveyed with considerable emotional depth by an actor whose restrained and thoughtful portrayal is truly compelling. It's a strong examination of both the benefits and drawbacks of faith, as well as the risks involved when that faith is challenged by a person confronting its perceived injustices and contradictions. The film manages to cover a great deal in ninety minutes, poses some very basic inquiries, and remains visually impressive even on a large screen in black and white.

Source on TMDB