The Metamorphosis

Arthur Pita's “dance-theatre adaptation” of Kafka's classic tale about Gregor Samsa—who awakens one morning transformed into a gigantic beetle—proves to be a stunning vehicle for Edward Watson, a principal at London's Royal Ballet, who twists and contorts his body impressively and by the close is literally sliding about the stage in oily black gunk. Apart from Watson's sinuous performance and the production's striking visual design, however, The Metamorphosis feels overextended. The opening scenes are devoted to Gregor's routine of going to and from work while also putting up with his parents and younger sister, all set to music composed and played by Frank Moon and a small instrumental ensemble. After the mutation, Moon's score turns creepy and insinuating, although it makes room for duets for Watson with the two female dancers (Laura Day as the sibling and Nina Goldman as Mrs. Samsa), as well as a boisterous klezmer bit for three visiting rabbis. One has to admire the precision that Pita secures from all of his performers, not only during the dance routines but also in the dramatic moments. But while this adaptation, directed by Ross MacGibbon, does achieve some poignancy along with the horror, it remains a decided oddity. Presented in DTS-5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on the Blu-ray version) and LPCM stereo, extras include a brief introduction, a “making-of” featurette, and a cast gallery. A strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek)