The Red Violin

As intricately crafted and beautiful as its subject, The Red Violin recounts the somewhat cursed history of a famed--and extraordinarily resilient--"perfect acoustic instrument." From its loving birth at the hands of violin maker extraordinaire Nicolo Bussotti in 1681, to its vilification as a symbol of Western musical decadence in 1960's China; from its mastering by a six-year-old child prodigy in an 18th century Viennese court, to its celebrated auction in contemporary Montreal; we trace the instrument's rich history through its wide range of ill-fated owners. Although hampered somewhat by its limiting premise, this beautifully lensed film, full of passion and moving musical performances, will well entertain lovers of both fine film and music. Recommended. (S. C. Sickles)[DVD Review—June 10, 2008—Lionsgate, 130 min., R, $26.98—Making its third appearance on DVD, 1998's The Red Violin features a nice transfer and Dolby Digital 5.1 sound. DVD extras include audio commentary by co-writer/director François Girard and co-writer Don McKellar, an 18-minute “The Auction Block” featurette about costly and coveted Stradivarius violins, “The Oscar-Winning Chaconne” music segment featuring composer John Corigliano (16 min.), and trailers. Bottom line: a winning extras package for a fine film.]