Callas Forever (2004) (Wednesday, December 2, 2009)

This is an interesting film by Franco Zeffirelli about an ersatz history where in 1977, rather than dying too early, the legendary soprano Maria Callas would have made a series of movies of her most famous opera works. It's a wonderful little fantasy that lovingly shows the diva in a striking and human light. She is concerned about the perception of her authenticity and the reality of the passage of time on her aging voice. What is no surprise is that Zeffirelli makes the film visually interesting, using bright colors and a wonderful faded color look. Overall this is an interesting and fun movie and perfect for opera lovers.

Stars: 2.5 of 4

My Dinner with Andre (1981) (Thursday, October 1, 2009)

I have to admit, having never seen this film before and hearing about it through the years, I was a bit worried about what I'd find at the theater. But when the opportunity presented itself to see it (as part of the New York Film Festival), I decided I should try it out. I gotta say - it's a great movie!

It is funny and fresh and wonderfully playful and post-modern. I don't totally know how Louis Malle is able to have a nearly-two-hour dinner conversation remain gripping and interesting throughout, but he does. Wallace Shawn is hilarious and Andre Gregory is compelling and bizarre and fascinating (the script, written by the two of them, is great). It's a long one to get through - and I'm not sure it would have worked as well for me on the small screen in my living room - but it's worth it. It's also one of the most effective tongue-in-cheek uses of a voice over in recent memory.

... and then they danced and drank all night until dawn ...

Stars: 4 of 4