Scener ur ett äktenskap

Like the original six-part TV series, the film version of SCENER UR ETT ÄKTENSKAP consists of six intimate scenes from the erratic relationship between Marianne (Liv Ullmann) and Johan (Erland Josephson) over a period of several years. At the beginning they present the image of a perfect marriage. In an interview for a women’s journal Johan, 42, lecturer, shows himself to be self-confident and convinced he is a model husband. Marianne, 35, divorce lawyer, doesn’t know quite what to say and simply confirms what her husband proffers. A brutally candid conflict between friends of theirs seems to trigger something between Marianne and Johan. They begin to ask themselves what’s not right between them – in bed as well. Gradually Marianne begins to revolt in her own little way: she doesn’t want to go to their parents’ place for dinner, like every Sunday. But then suddenly her whole world collapses: Johan declares that he has a young lover, Paula, and that he is leaving for Paris with her on the next day. Everyone knew about them, of course, except Marianne. During their separation Marianne gains strength and self-confidence, files for divorce and begins to live her own life. Johan, however, has to admit that he is an “emotional illiterate” and that he has been a failure all his life. In the end they are left with the possibility of friendship.