Victor Sjöström (1879-1960) was a prominent figure in Swedish cinema, renowned both as a pioneer of silent film direction and as an actor with a commanding screen presence.

His acting career often saw him starring in films he himself directed, portraying complex and tormented characters. Among his most iconic performances is his role in *Körkarlen* (The Phantom Carriage, 1921), a silent film masterpiece.

In his later years, he gained worldwide recognition for arguably his most famous role: Professor Isak Borg in Ingmar Bergman's *Smultronstället* (Wild Strawberries, 1957). His style was distinguished by naturalism, emotional depth, and an intrinsic dignity, often lending his face to elderly, wise yet fragile and introspective figures.