The themes on mortality aren’t of any particular insight, but The Seventh Seal‘s heavily sullen atmosphere invisibly weaves a dark shroud over a revived and stoically breathing portrait of a suffering 14th century Europe. Not without its share of duller moments, but they’re overcome through powerful imagery, properly contemplative philosophical musings, and surprisingly, some great humorous quips, usually delivered by sardonic Gunnar Björnstrand as the nihilistic Squire Jöns.