The Phantom Carriage is a Swedish silent film, directed by Victor Sjรถstrรถm and released in 1921. The film is based on the novel Thy Soul Shall Bear Witness! by Selma Lagerlรถf.
The movie follows the story of David Holm, a hard-drinking and abusive man who is the last person to die on New Year's Eve. His soul is then taken by the Phantom Chariot, which is driven by the gruesome figure of Death himself. The chariot travels around the country, collecting the souls of the recently deceased.
David is given a chance to redeem himself by telling the story of his life to Death. He reveals his past as a violent and selfish man, who mistreated his wife and children. Through his story, David comes to realize the extent of the harm he has caused and seeks to make amends.
The film is notable for its use of flashbacks, which are used to reveal David's troubled past. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with many scenes shot outdoors at night using natural lighting. The Phantom Carriage has been recognized as an important work in the history of Swedish cinema, and has been praised for its themes of redemption and forgiveness.