Don Quixote

Ludwig Minkus composed the titular tuneful 1869 ballet (based loosely on Cervantes's classic novel), but the star—literally and figuratively—of this extravagant 1973 production is unquestionably the great Rudolf Nureyev, who not only staged the original Australian Ballet mounting, but also co-directed this filmed version with Robert Helpmann. Nureyev dances the lead role of handsome barber Basilio, whom heroine Kitri (Lucette Aldous) runs off with despite her father's plan that she marry a wealthy fop. Don Quixote (Helpmann) is actually a secondary figure, who, along with his squire Sancho (Ray Powell), intervenes to ensure that true love wins out. Shot in an airplane hangar to accommodate all the equipment, Don Quixote is lavish—boasting colorful sets and costumes—and Nureyev's re-creation of Marius Petipa's original choreography shows his mastery (as does his employment of crane shots, close-ups, and fluid panning to create a truly cinematic feel). Even more striking is his virtuoso dancing, which is matched by Helpmann and Aldous, who had the unenviable task of replacing Margot Fonteyn, Nureyev's earlier onstage partner. The musical side is handled with spirit and precision under arranger-conductor John Lanchbery. Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 and LPCM stereo, extras include a “making-of” documentary, split-scene comparisons illustrating the restoration process, and text bios. One of the best ballet movies ever made, this is highly recommended. (F. Swietek)