“Don Giovanni”
The legend of Don Juan has been the source for many stories, one version
of which is told in Mozart's Italian-language opera "Don Giovanni."
In 1979 Joseph Losey directed a version of "Don Giovanni"
set in the region around Venice and shot at charming locations, including
Palladio's famous Villa Rotonda. For his film, Losey assembled a stellar
cast of opera singers, including bass Ruggero Raimondi, soprano Kiri
Te Kanawa, soprano Edda Moser, baritone Jose Van Dam, and mezzo-soprano
Teresa Berganza. The film chronicles some of Don Giovanni's seduction
attempts, but it is primarily concerned with the consequences of an
incident where he kills a man. I love the way the singers in the movie
are always shown in varied and interesting places. I found the film
to be a visual delight, and what's more, it's shot and edited to fit
the music and story. "Don Giovanni" is one of the very best
operas available on DVD, and I highly recommend it. |
