Director Joseph Losey's 1978 film adaptation of Mozart's 1787 opera Don Giovanni (based on the legend of the 17th century aristocratic philanderer Don Juan) finds the consummate Mr. Wrong's attempts to seduce Donna Anna ending in tragedy when the Don winds up killing the woman's father when he tries to rescue his daughter. Don Giovanni's subsequent road to ruin provides some of the most dramatic, as well as humorous and melodic, moments in all of opera. Moved off the stage, this beautifully lensed film takes us to the Italian countryside (no, not Spain) where, to the dismay of his valet Leporello, the Don tries to have his way with the beautiful, betrothed Zerlina while being stalked by a vengeful Donna Elvira and the sorrowing Don Ottavio, fiancé of Donna Anna. A vocally distinguished cast--John Macurdy, Teresa Berganza, Edda Moser, Kenneth Riegel, Ruggero Raimondi, Kiri Te Kanawa, and José van Dam--display varying degrees of acting skills, while Lorin Maazel provides supple conducting. Given the high level of performance, lavish costuming, and stunning sets, it's a little disappointing that the soundtrack is not sympathetic to Mozart's incomparable vocal ensembles (fans of the stage performance might find some of the sound frustrating). Still, for those new to opera this should be a particularly enjoyable approach. Highly recommended. Aud: H, P. (J. Reed)[Blu-ray Review—Feb. 26, 2013—Olive, 176 min., in Italian w/English subtitles, not rated, $24.95—Making its first appearance on Blu-ray, 1979's Don Giovanni sports a nice transfer and a DTS-HD 5.1 soundtrack, but no special features. Bottom line: Losey's wonderful filmed version of Mozart's classic opera makes a welcome debut on Blu-ray.]
Don Giovanni
(1978) 176 min. In Italian w/English subtitles. DVD: $29.95. Columbia TriStar Home Video (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. ISBN: 0-7678-7542-7. Volume 17, Issue 4
Don Giovanni
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