Though the story line is a little difficult and strange to follow the music is beautiful! I purchased this movie after a class discussion in music history about castrati. There is a lot of sensuality and passion at times that doesn't necessarily stem from the music but overall it is an interesting movie. I'm not sure how historically accurate the movie is and it's strange watching Farinelli sing considering the music that comes out of his mouth. Once you get past it though, it seems to work. Technology has done it's part in trying to match his voice with first-hand descriptions of a castrati's voice. I'm sure to watch it again!
It's one of my favorite movies. I am a musician and was hugely engaged when I saw it years ago in theaters.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Just replacing an outdated VHS tape with a DVD version. Excellent film.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Not to sound absurd, but I have 9 diplomas (in music + other obsessions) from 7 countries. I am a Pulitizer prize nominee (for musical composition) with over 80 musical editions and books published and with active in-store distribution (most in 4 languages) in over 40 countries... So... With all that flotsam out of the way (if for no other reason than to establish that I, perhaps, do have some level of credibility)... I must say, this DVD is an exceptional documentation (although somewhat fictionalized) of the "scene" in the late Baroque/early classic period insofar as operatic world with regards to the castrati and their social / artistic rôle in Europe. Sadly, wiith the slightly "erotic" issues addressed in the film (although, not in the least unrealistic), the film is inappropriate for children, yet for adults (assuming any of us fit into that catagory...), it is an exceptional film, BRILIANT musical score and should be viewed by anyone interested in historical performance practice with an IQ over 10... Best, Anthony GLISE www.AnthonyGlise.comRead full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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