The Life of Verdi

At 10-hours-plus, this Italian miniseries about Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) is certainly comprehensive, covering the composer's life from his birth up through his funeral. As much attention is given to personal drama—Verdi's two marriages, estrangement from his father, and devotion to the hometown shop owner (and father of his first wife) who sponsored his youthful studies—as it is to Verdi's musical career, which unfolds through a chronological survey of virtually all of his operas, from 1839's Oberto to 1893's Falstaff (some opera scenes are restaged, while others are represented by clips from films). Verdi's life is also situated within the larger historical context, particularly his role in the emergence of Italy as a modern nation over the course of the century. Lavishly shot in Italy, England, France, and Russia (including theatres where some of the operas actually premiered), The Life of Verdi remains visually impressive, even if the image quality obviously doesn't match today's high-def productions. Unfortunately, the tone here is often hagiographical, while the performances are variable—many are over-the-top while others (including Ronald Pickup's as Verdi) are positively stiff. And the English dubbing is disappointing, with sound effects (like footsteps that come across like the clatter of woodblocks) that are even worse than the frequently clumsy dialogue. Extensive narration is provided by Burt Lancaster, delivered with genial charm (even if he often mispronounces the composer's name). Despite its flaws, this should be considered a strong optional purchase, especially for opera lovers. (F. Swietek)