The reinvention of Verdi’s masterpiece, La Traviata, as sung by world-famous French coloratura soprano Natalie Dessay, is the subject of Philippe Béziat’s thrilling new movie. A modern, minimalist, post-punk approach strips away the opulence and grandiosity associated with operatic productions. Concentrating on director Jean-François Sivadier’s working relationship with Dessay, the film reveals how two great creative minds build the story of a doomed love affair.
The stars rehearse in what look like yoga outfits, on a bare stage, with minimal props. The final production, set against a backdrop of sky and clouds, punctuated by a single chandelier, features Violetta and Alfredo (a darkly gorgeous Charles Castronovo) as the very essence of hipster-chic. Their passion, however, is for the ages. With music performed by the London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Louis Langrée.
Becoming Traviata (2013)
Directed by: Philippe Béziat
Starring: Charles Castronovo, Natalie Dessay, Louis Langrée, Matthew Polenzani, Jean-François Sivadier
Cinematography by: Raphaël O’Byrne
Film Editing by: Cyril Leuthy
MPAA Rating: None.
Studio: Distrib Films
Release Date: May 24, 2013
Visits: 64
