The “love” referred to in the title of this “film essay” on the inspired orchestral leader Wilhelm Furtwängler (1886-1954), who conducted the Berlin Philharmonic for some 30 years, has multiple associations. It refers to the love between Furtwängler and his second wife Elisabeth, whose almost idolatrous recollections comprise the bulk of Jan Schmidt-Garre's 2004 documentary. It also captures Furtwängler's absolute reverence for music, illustrated by his ability to coax readings of amazing depth and immediacy from his players. And it points to what Furtwängler always claimed was his real artistic passion—composing. Presented in a leisurely, artsy style, with extensive interview segments punctuated by archival footage and stills, as well as location shots taken from a moving train, the film covers the whole of Furtwängler's life, albeit in an impressionistic fashion where chronology and clarity play second fiddle to an adoring tone, which also extends to performances of Furtwängler's music in afternoon recitals at Elisabeth's home. The one aspect of Furtwängler's life that is skimmed over is his much-debated relationship with the Nazi regime, which is dismissed here with the flimsy argument that music simply trumps politics. As much a love letter to Furtwängler as a film about his loves, this will appeal primarily to his devotees. DVD extras include over five hours of audio interviews, speeches, and rehearsals by Furtwängler in MP3 format—a treasure-trove for specialists, though it will only be of modest interest to others. Definitely recommended for academic music collections, but optional elsewhere. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)
Furtwängler's Love
(2004) 70 min.</span> <span class=GramE>In German w/English subtitles.</span> DVD: $28.98 (booklet included). Naxos of America (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 978-3-939873-46-4. October 27, 2008
Furtwängler's Love
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