Conductor Charles Hazlewood journeys to Russia in search of clues to uncover the heavily shrouded mysteries surrounding the life of enigmatic composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (played by Ed Stoppard). Through dramatic interpretation and personal insight, Hazlewood paints a portrait of a genius whose inner demons, paralyzing neurosis and closeted homosexuality combined to make Tchaikovsky one of music's most fascinating and troubled figures.
This is a two-part docudrama on the composer's life. THE United Kingdom and the BBC know how to tell an elaborate story of interest.
Episode 1: Tchaikovsky: The Creation of Genius (2007, UK)
Episode 2: Tchaikovsky: Fortune and Tragedy (2007, UK)
Tchaikovsky was played magnificently by Ed Stoppard. This is a 'must-see' for anyone who is musically inclined or has a LOVE of music.
Showing posts with label composer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label composer. Show all posts
Monday, June 13, 2011
Monday, May 9, 2011
De-Lovely - 2004
De-Lovely is a 2004 musical biopic directed by Irwin Winkler. The screenplay by Jay Cocks is based on the life and career of Cole Porter, from his first meeting with Linda Lee Thomas until his death. It is the second biopic about the composer, following Night and Day.
Although Porter was a passable singer at best, director Irwin Winkler cast Kevin Kline, winner of two Tony Awards and two Drama Desk Awards for his musical performances on Broadway, as the composer. He stayed in character by limiting his vocal range. Most of his singing was recorded live on the set, and the actor played the piano himself in the scenes where Porter plays.
According to Winkler's commentary on the DVD release of the film, he had considered numerous actresses for the role of Linda when Ashley Judd's agent advised him she was interested in the part. Winkler was certain her salary demand would exceed that allowed by the budget, but the actress was so anxious to portray Linda she was willing to lower her usual asking price. Judd is twenty years younger than Kline, although the composer's wife was eight years older than he. Filming locations included Chiswick House and Luton Hoo.
Although Porter was a passable singer at best, director Irwin Winkler cast Kevin Kline, winner of two Tony Awards and two Drama Desk Awards for his musical performances on Broadway, as the composer. He stayed in character by limiting his vocal range. Most of his singing was recorded live on the set, and the actor played the piano himself in the scenes where Porter plays.
According to Winkler's commentary on the DVD release of the film, he had considered numerous actresses for the role of Linda when Ashley Judd's agent advised him she was interested in the part. Winkler was certain her salary demand would exceed that allowed by the budget, but the actress was so anxious to portray Linda she was willing to lower her usual asking price. Judd is twenty years younger than Kline, although the composer's wife was eight years older than he. Filming locations included Chiswick House and Luton Hoo.
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