Reviews (1)

Beautiful music, romance and troubled times in one's life.
A wonderfully written story about a Spanish painter, Francesco Goya,and his viewpoint of life during the Spanish Inquisition, and his obsession with an intriguing and beautiful woman, the Countess of Alba. This is a movie worth seeing. It tells of life during the inquisition , of trying to stay in favor with the courts and also keep their social standing even when associating with the common people. Beautiful Spanish music makes you feel as if you are there. This movie has a combination of love and romance, jealousy, hatred and death and combined together makes a very good story. Anthony Franciosa and Ava Gardner were very believable in their portrail of these characters. They draw you into the story and make you feel as if you are a part of it all. ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Ah, Fellini, Masina!
A prostitute whose life is a veritable study in the resilience of the human spirit is the subject of "Nights of Cabiria," directed by Federico Fellini. Giulietta Masina stars as Cabiria, a gentle soul at heart who manages to maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity. Experiences that would leave those of lesser mettle jaded she is seemingly able to ward off and emerge from intact, with a guarded optimism that nevertheless leaves her open to whatever ills life may have in store for her next. But it is just that optimism and her sense of joy in the simple things that makes her so endearing. She is proud, for example, of the fact that she owns her own house, hovel though it may be. Though not one to be easily duped, she is vulnerable to sincere persistence, which has in the past rendered her victim to those who would take advantage of her, which is succinctly established in the opening scene of the film. Fellini's film is a study of how good may succumb to evil, and yet still triumph in the end (though open to subjective interpretation). It's something of an examination of endurance; how many times can one be knocked down before finally being unable to stand back up again. At the same time, however, it's an example of how purity can prevail against even the utmost cruelty. There is a humanity manifested in Cabiria that somehow gives absolution, not only to her lifestyle, but to those who would willingly do her harm. And it is in that very same absolution that we find a message of hope and redemption. As Cabiria, the diminutive Masina gives a performance that is nothing less than superlative, filled with nuance and expression. She has a face and a manner that convey an unbelievable depth of emotion, and Fellini captures every bit of it with his camera to perfection. It sometimes seems that she is a sprite merely masquerading as a woman; she has a light, almost ethereal presence, though at the same time she exhibits an earthy quality that gives her character such complexity, which removes any semblance of stereotype one may assign to her character as a "lady of the evening." It is a heartfelt, memorable portrayal that quite simply should have earned her an Oscar for Best Actress. Turning in a noteworthy performance, also, is Francois Perier, as Oscar D'Onofrio, the stranger who comes into Cabiria's life with an offer that ultimately seems too good to be true. The supporting cast includes Amedeo Nazzari (Alberto Lazzari), Aldo Silvani (The Hypnotist), Franca Marzi (Wanda), Dorian Gray (Jessy), Mario Passante (Cripple in the "Miracle" sequence), Pina Gualandri (Matilda), Leo Cattozzo (Man with the sack) and Polidor (The Monk). "Nights of Cabiria" is a film of extraordinary depth that is beautiful as well in it's humanity; Fellini has created images, both visually and emotionally, that are stunning and indelibly realized. Highlighted by the performance of Giulietta Masina, this is a film that begs to be embraced, one that will stay with you long after the last shadow has passed from the screen into darkness. In Cabiria, Fellini somehow touches something eternal, for there is a lasting sense of innate goodness about her that simply cannot be forgotten. For seekers after wisdom and truth, this is definitely a film that must not be missed.

a pretty nice film
This review is for the Criterion Collection DVD edition of the film.

The film's original title is "Le Notti di Cabiria" and was later remade as the film Sweet Charity with Shirley MacClaine.

This film is the story of a prostitute trying unsucessfully to find true love. This edition includes a famous "man with a sack" scene that was cut from from the film and is shown for the first time on home video. The film has good acting and some scenes with great humor.

the special features on the DVD include the original trailer, an audio interview with producer Dino DeLaurentiis, a video interview with Fellini's assistant, Dominique Delouche (conducted at his apartment in Paris) A scene from the film "The White Sheik" which was later released by Criterion, and a demo of the restoration.

The restoration is very impressive and shows how they were able to take a film that had faded severly and make it look almost brand new. The demonstration alone, is worth renting the DVD. If you like Fellini's movies, Buy it.

Another classic that has left me COLD-but I warm easily
"La Notti Di Cabriria" is a fine showcase for the goofball charm of Giulietta Masina. I have no doubt that it has reduced many a mighty soul to tears and trembling. The story is tight and conveyed with authority and conviction. I am certain that this is a "good" movie that most people enjoy thoroughly. I'm going to back and watch it again, but as it stands, it just didn't move me like I expected it to. I can't very well give it a higher rating until it impacts me emotionally.

Still, I recognize that the film has an exceedingly dirty feel to it. Everything from Cabriria's occupation to the filthy beggars crying out for Grace from Maria --reek with a pestilence that cannot be washed off. The film is ugly--and Cabriria is presented like a little beacon of light to guide the viewer through the stinking pit of civilization. Masina does a fine job conveying the sufferings and triumphs of her character. I'm just not a big fan of these types of stories--I watched it because it is a Fellini film and I am trying to work my way through all his work. I will watch this again after I've made more of a dent in his output. I'll probably see it in an entirely different way and perhaps may even like it more.

Ultimately, if you love rooting for the little gal, this film is for you. She is very much like Chaplin's "little tramp" and you will enjoy observing her gritty determination to climb every mountain with a song in her heart. Watch it when you are not cynical, open to sweetness, and not afraid of the tyranny of the sun.

Collector's Gem
Quality counts with the folks at The Criterion Collection, not just technically but in content too. This is one of Fellini's most fully realized films and the nostalgia and unflinching gaze that pervades all his best work is present in every frame. Everyone mentions Giulietta Masina's performance and there's a reason for that. She is brilliant. One of the most heart wrenching performances ever put on film. The DVD includes the "Man with the Sack" sequence that producer Dino de Laurentiis (more recently the production powerhouse behind the Hannibal Lecter franchise) excised from the original release. One can understand why a producer would want to trim it out - but its inclusion here makes the film seem larger somehow and Criterion should be applauded for putting it back in. This DVD is a vital part of your Fellini DVD Collection should you be assembling one. And you are, aren't you?

poignant
I had never seen anything by Fellini when I picked up this movie. Not expecting much, I was astounded by the amazing performance of Cabiria by Masina. Masina gives the Cabiria character tenderness, vulnerability and comedy. I have never before or since seen an actress with the expressions of Masina, she was truly something special and a delight to watch. The transformation of the Cabiria character from beginning to end is fascinating to watch. The movie leaves the viewer with a lot to think about in regards to humanity, grace and kindness. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Too old - Too late
I bought this in the hope of a good video of my favourite Donizetti-opera. And Sutherland was famous for ANYTHING belcanto... But here she's too old and it was too late. She's transposing and slowing down the madscene... Something she has never done before... A gorgeous production with a strong cast except for Sutherland...

A Powerful Performance - Now that's opera
Opera is the most satisfying of all the arts. It brings the best of all worlds together- acting, drama, singing, orchestral music and even dance in the case of some operas, Gaetano Donizetti's operas were very popular and have become established bel canto traditions in many theateres all around the world. Bel canto operas flourished in the early 19th century, most significantly in Italy but they soon made their way to France and Germany and even Russia (Wagner himself was influenced by some bel canto opera techniques and even Tchaikovsky's highly romantic tragic opera "Eunege Onegin" shows bel canto influence. Donizetti was the most gifted of the bel canto composers, able to write arias and ensembles of powerful dramatic context as well as emotionally touching and beautiful to hear. For bel canto operas only the best singers must take part. Casting the perfect bel canto heroine is trying sometimes, since very few sopranos of the 20th century exercized a skilled combination of beautiful vocals and dramatic acting. Only Maria Callas and later Beverly Sills would be the best bel canto heroines.

Joan Sutherland- This is Australian soprano, who was married to conductor Richard Bonynge, has been hailed for her beautiful voice. It is beautiful. It is smooth, gracefull, rich, full and very round and heavy. Her voice is always at home in bel canto operas. It is non wonder then that she is most recognized for her performances in Lucrezia Borgia, Lucia Di Lammermoor and in this DVD, the role of Anne Boylen. As the tragic queen, she manages to portray a vast range of emotions and visually the whole production is impressive. Joan Sutherland is older in this video, which was filmed in the 80's but her dramatic persona is quite convincing. Her facial contortions, her cries and her grace make her very believable as the historic Anne Boylen. This opera was Donizetti's first big hit, earning him prestige in the Italian theater of San Carlo. He would produce and deliver operas to a favorable public for years to come.

The story of Henry 8th's merciless and cruel treatment of Anne is performed well. Henry 8th is sung by a bass-baritone (the archetypical opera villain voice) and strides with regial tyranny as the real king would have done. He has no actual arias but his talents are showcased in various recitatives with Jane Seymour (a mezzo soprano with some dramatic textures) and in the ensembles. Jane Seymour in this opera is a performance delivered rather well, despite some strains now and then, especiallly in the duet with Anne. Highlights in this opera include the quintet and sextets of Act 1 and 2, the romantic duet between Percy and Anne and of courses Anne's final scenes- the Mad Scene and her execution. It was Anne's Mad Scene that preceeded and echoed the later and more famous Mad Scene of Lucia Di Lammermoor, Donizettis most popular masterpiece. Both Ann and Lucia hallucinate of marriage, speak of lost love and are completely overwhelmed by melancholia, arias and roulades accompanied by the sounds of flutes. Although Lucia's Mad Scene is better musicallly and dramaticallly, Annes Mad Scene is quite dramatic as well. Her most challenging aria comes in the end in "Coppia Iniquia" in which she awaits her execution and plunges into roulades and exclamations against the terrible crime of her death.

I personally prefer Beverly Sills in the role of Anne Boylen, but there exists only a recording of it on cd and in the box set of the Three Tudor Queens. Beverlys live performance of Anne Boylen was never filmed but it must have been a sensation and the best interpretation. Joan Sutherland is a good singer but she falls short on acting credibility.

Strong cast and authentic staging
I think this a very authentic production of the opera, from staging to customes. A delight for opera purists.

For the casting, Joan is still amazing at her age. It is true that she does not possess the stamina at the end of the opera (listen to her last note and compare with her Decca CD recording), but in average, this is still Joan's typical great performance. James Morris handles his role brilliantly, and acts as if he were a king ^_^. I think the tenor Michael Myers' timbre is a bit too dark for my taste, but his overall vocal and acting skills are still admirable nonetheless. Other smaller roles are mostly very capable, including Ben Heppner taking up Hervey.

A minor criticism is that, in the year 1984, they are still recoring in mono! I do not understand this, and this may scare away some audiophiles. By setting up my surround sound system, I manage to get a more spatial sound stage. And after about 3 minutes after the overture, I totally forget about this audio deficiency since it is really an enjoyable opera performance.

Costumes are Wonderful!
This is a very lonnnngggg opera and Joan should have passed on Anna as she didn't have the stamina nor the voice to pull it off. Having heard her in the earlier years, this is almost embarrassing to witness her decline vocally. I bought it based on the customer reviews of the supporting cast and production. Found the customer reviews very accurate in my opinion. I loved the costumes and the sets were just perfect as well. Joan's hubby did a commendable job in the pit with a responsive orchestra. The star turn was James Morris' Henry the VIII! Wow! Forst was fine and Heppner, though a tiny role, demonstrated that this was a voice with immense promise. Don't believe there is another video available to rival this one. The only other recommendation is Beverly Sills' CD for this opera. Somehow, I had a difficult time avoiding boredom with this performance except for Morris. Maybe repeated viewings will improve my opinion. Ok if you can forgive Joan for growing old, losing her support and along with it her middle and low voice. Her high notes pinched with a very wide vibrato. I just felt sorry for her - she was exhausted and it showed!

Close to 60----------Sutherland was still " La Stupenda"
This Anna Bolena recording does not have the best audio or visual quality that we really desire.However, it is an extremely important document and shows why Dame Joan was still "La Stupenda" at age close to 60 !It is ashame that the Met refused to mount this opera for Sutherland during her raving success around the world-a great lost for New Yorker!This is a must for any opera lover---------including fans of Dame Joan. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Ultimate Lucia On Film
Anna Moffo in Lucia. You can't get any better than that !! The 60's opera sensation Anna Moffo has a great following and her voice is perfect for the tragic heroine Lucia. Donizetti's opera about thwarted love, forbidden romance, madness and murder in bleak Scotland is his best and most acclaimed. Anna Moffo's beauty and voice, neither which had faded at the time of this film, 1971, is enchanting. On film, this is as great opera to watch. Starring as her lover Edgardo is Lajos Kozma, a little known European tenor. Anna Moffo was American-bred but she has Italian background. If I'm not mistaken she could speak Italian fluently and at one time also had her own show on Italian television. Many will flock to the DVD of Joan Sutherland's Met performance as Lucia, long regarded as the best. But eventhough I'm a Moffo fan, here's why I think Moffo is better as Lucia.

Anna Moffo has the right look for Lucia. Her beauty provides her with a vulnerability and naivete that is appropriate for the romantic, lovesick and naive young heroine who is driven to madness. Joan Sutherland does not have any of these qualities and insteads she looks too old. This film is also very good visually. The haunting cinematography enhances the plot of the opera. The film was shot in authentic castles and moors. The fact that the movie looks dated and runs slow is not a problem. It adds to the allure of the old opera. Everything about this film is perfect. The look, the cast of singers and the orchestration. Get this if you're a fan of Anna Moffo and if you want to watch a great performance of Lucia.

surprisingly good
As far as opera movie goes this one is surprisingly good.
Granted the acting is a bit static and the filmography
academic and the sound a little fuzzy in ensemble - however
the sets (real castle, real outdoors) and costumes are
beautiful and everybody looks good and right for the parts.
Anna Moffo is definetely the star - she is ravishing to
look at and a pleasure to listen to - a warm, full lyric
soprano voice with an easy top and considerable agility -
tenor Lajos Kozma is light and a bit nasal but sings well
and baritone and bass are good. All and all a very enjoyable
movie and a lovely memento of Anna Moffo in her prime,
especially to people like me too young to have known her
while she was still active.

Moffo Momento
I was really disappointed in the casting of this video. Moffo sings beautifully in dubbing but the balance of the cast is inferior to say the least. The costumes are pretty and the castle is grand but found myself totally unmoved. The Met version with Sutherland is better in my opinion, even though I'm a fan of Moffo. Must remember it's done in 1968 style as well, and not as much good acting as some today. Nice to have to remember Moffo, however.

Horrible audio quality prvents form ejoying the music
Well, I got accustomed to the low quality of "Visual Artists International" videos, and would not have bought this one, if only I could get another Anna Moffo video recording of a complete opera. But what I heard here is simply below any reasonable quality standard. High notes are distorted, orchestra voices are not heard at all, everything is messed up. When they sing or play loudly and high, you just have to shut your ears. Many old archived non-restored recordings are of better quality than this one. Total waste of money.

Anna Moffo is magnificent!
Moffo is stunningly lovely both vocally and visually. A must-have for fans of gorgeous singing. Everyone else in the film is rather terrible, however, from the bleating goat of a maidservant to a ridiculously effeminate-sounding tenor "hero." None of that is of importance, though, considering the glory of Anna Moffo. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

A year after his international breakthrough film La Strada,Federico Fellini and his leading lady/wife Giulietta Masina collaborated on another masterpiece, a magical mix of neorealism and romantic optimism set on the streets of Rome. Masina's moon-faced and bright-eyed Cabiria is a passionate streetwalker with a heart as big as Italy and the emotional spontaneity of a child, a woman with a hearty passion for life whose constant weakness is falling in love with mercenary creeps. For a couple of hours we share the dreams and disillusionments of Cabiria as she rattles around Rome before once again losing her heart. The bittersweet heartbreak is tempered with a soaring celebration of the human spirit: no other Fellini film offers such honest hope in the face of such bitter devastation. Fellini left the poor and the working class to revel in the decadence of Rome's high society for his next film, La Dolce Vita, a film that could have sprung from Cabiria's hilarious chance interlude with a matinee idol (played by Amedeo Nazzari). Rambling and leisurely paced, Nights of Cabiria is a sweet film of warmth and simple grace. It became the basis of Neil Simon's American musical Sweet Charity, with Shirley Maclaine taking Masina's role in Bob Fosse's film version. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (48)

Ah, Fellini, Masina!
A prostitute whose life is a veritable study in the resilience of the human spirit is the subject of "Nights of Cabiria," directed by Federico Fellini. Giulietta Masina stars as Cabiria, a gentle soul at heart who manages to maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity. Experiences that would leave those of lesser mettle jaded she is seemingly able to ward off and emerge from intact, with a guarded optimism that nevertheless leaves her open to whatever ills life may have in store for her next. But it is just that optimism and her sense of joy in the simple things that makes her so endearing. She is proud, for example, of the fact that she owns her own house, hovel though it may be. Though not one to be easily duped, she is vulnerable to sincere persistence, which has in the past rendered her victim to those who would take advantage of her, which is succinctly established in the opening scene of the film. Fellini's film is a study of how good may succumb to evil, and yet still triumph in the end (though open to subjective interpretation). It's something of an examination of endurance; how many times can one be knocked down before finally being unable to stand back up again. At the same time, however, it's an example of how purity can prevail against even the utmost cruelty. There is a humanity manifested in Cabiria that somehow gives absolution, not only to her lifestyle, but to those who would willingly do her harm. And it is in that very same absolution that we find a message of hope and redemption. As Cabiria, the diminutive Masina gives a performance that is nothing less than superlative, filled with nuance and expression. She has a face and a manner that convey an unbelievable depth of emotion, and Fellini captures every bit of it with his camera to perfection. It sometimes seems that she is a sprite merely masquerading as a woman; she has a light, almost ethereal presence, though at the same time she exhibits an earthy quality that gives her character such complexity, which removes any semblance of stereotype one may assign to her character as a "lady of the evening." It is a heartfelt, memorable portrayal that quite simply should have earned her an Oscar for Best Actress. Turning in a noteworthy performance, also, is Francois Perier, as Oscar D'Onofrio, the stranger who comes into Cabiria's life with an offer that ultimately seems too good to be true. The supporting cast includes Amedeo Nazzari (Alberto Lazzari), Aldo Silvani (The Hypnotist), Franca Marzi (Wanda), Dorian Gray (Jessy), Mario Passante (Cripple in the "Miracle" sequence), Pina Gualandri (Matilda), Leo Cattozzo (Man with the sack) and Polidor (The Monk). "Nights of Cabiria" is a film of extraordinary depth that is beautiful as well in it's humanity; Fellini has created images, both visually and emotionally, that are stunning and indelibly realized. Highlighted by the performance of Giulietta Masina, this is a film that begs to be embraced, one that will stay with you long after the last shadow has passed from the screen into darkness. In Cabiria, Fellini somehow touches something eternal, for there is a lasting sense of innate goodness about her that simply cannot be forgotten. For seekers after wisdom and truth, this is definitely a film that must not be missed.

a pretty nice film
This review is for the Criterion Collection DVD edition of the film.

The film's original title is "Le Notti di Cabiria" and was later remade as the film Sweet Charity with Shirley MacClaine.

This film is the story of a prostitute trying unsucessfully to find true love. This edition includes a famous "man with a sack" scene that was cut from from the film and is shown for the first time on home video. The film has good acting and some scenes with great humor.

the special features on the DVD include the original trailer, an audio interview with producer Dino DeLaurentiis, a video interview with Fellini's assistant, Dominique Delouche (conducted at his apartment in Paris) A scene from the film "The White Sheik" which was later released by Criterion, and a demo of the restoration.

The restoration is very impressive and shows how they were able to take a film that had faded severly and make it look almost brand new. The demonstration alone, is worth renting the DVD. If you like Fellini's movies, Buy it.

Another classic that has left me COLD-but I warm easily
"La Notti Di Cabriria" is a fine showcase for the goofball charm of Giulietta Masina. I have no doubt that it has reduced many a mighty soul to tears and trembling. The story is tight and conveyed with authority and conviction. I am certain that this is a "good" movie that most people enjoy thoroughly. I'm going to back and watch it again, but as it stands, it just didn't move me like I expected it to. I can't very well give it a higher rating until it impacts me emotionally.

Still, I recognize that the film has an exceedingly dirty feel to it. Everything from Cabriria's occupation to the filthy beggars crying out for Grace from Maria --reek with a pestilence that cannot be washed off. The film is ugly--and Cabriria is presented like a little beacon of light to guide the viewer through the stinking pit of civilization. Masina does a fine job conveying the sufferings and triumphs of her character. I'm just not a big fan of these types of stories--I watched it because it is a Fellini film and I am trying to work my way through all his work. I will watch this again after I've made more of a dent in his output. I'll probably see it in an entirely different way and perhaps may even like it more.

Ultimately, if you love rooting for the little gal, this film is for you. She is very much like Chaplin's "little tramp" and you will enjoy observing her gritty determination to climb every mountain with a song in her heart. Watch it when you are not cynical, open to sweetness, and not afraid of the tyranny of the sun.

Collector's Gem
Quality counts with the folks at The Criterion Collection, not just technically but in content too. This is one of Fellini's most fully realized films and the nostalgia and unflinching gaze that pervades all his best work is present in every frame. Everyone mentions Giulietta Masina's performance and there's a reason for that. She is brilliant. One of the most heart wrenching performances ever put on film. The DVD includes the "Man with the Sack" sequence that producer Dino de Laurentiis (more recently the production powerhouse behind the Hannibal Lecter franchise) excised from the original release. One can understand why a producer would want to trim it out - but its inclusion here makes the film seem larger somehow and Criterion should be applauded for putting it back in. This DVD is a vital part of your Fellini DVD Collection should you be assembling one. And you are, aren't you?

poignant
I had never seen anything by Fellini when I picked up this movie. Not expecting much, I was astounded by the amazing performance of Cabiria by Masina. Masina gives the Cabiria character tenderness, vulnerability and comedy. I have never before or since seen an actress with the expressions of Masina, she was truly something special and a delight to watch. The transformation of the Cabiria character from beginning to end is fascinating to watch. The movie leaves the viewer with a lot to think about in regards to humanity, grace and kindness. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The biggest misuse of film in recent history
Strikingly and incredibly the dumbest movie i have seen in...well ever. I am a fan of the genre of movies that depict the evils of drug use in bizarre and unintentionally humorous, but usually untrue ways. Can anyone forget "Reefer Madnes" (1932) or "Cocaine Fiends" (1936) or "The Trip?" (1967) They are made, I'm sure, with the intention of giving somewhat of a warning message intended for the general publics safety, but can be misleading and sometimes grossly overzealous in their efforts. And now they are just fun. I first read about this movie a few years ago and was eager to add it to my movie collection. Thank goodness for Amazon because it has been hard to find. The cast/crew alone is intriguing enough in light of the subject matter for any movie buff. Rita Hayworth, Yul Brenner, Marcello Mastroiani, Eli Wallach, E.G. Marshall, Angie Dickinson, Omar Shariff all appear and it was directed by Terence Young who made the fantastic "Wait Until Dark" (1967) and some notable James Bond movies. Well, I know now why it has been so hard to find. It is an embarrasment to film. I don't know what everyone was thinking when they collaborated on this venture. Rita Hayworth's alzheimers was obviously already setting in for her to have even CONSIDERED this role, let alone taking it. Just a year before Omar Shariff appeared in "Doctor Zhivago," one of the best movies of that decade and I don't even know what to say about Yul Brenner. Just because someone earns an Oscar doesn't mean they should stop trying. Which ever studio head OK'd production for this flick MUST have lost his job and it is no wonder American International Pictures went bankrupt less than ten years later. And to boot it was produced for the United Nations as a television project! The editing is choppy, direction only approaching mediocre at best, and the dialogue and acting at times is just downright bad. Any of the actors who participated in this movie that are still living must cringe at the mere sight of a poppy now. And with good reason. In a masochistic way I had to watch it through to the end just to see how bad it would really get. I wasn't disappointed. It was. Bad. Terribly bad. It is a keeper for movie buffs only for the cast and to make you wonder what the ____ some of the best and well-known actors of the day were thinking. If you like this genre of film, stick with the better ones mentioned above or any of the others made throughout the decades. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The biggest misuse of film in recent history
Strikingly and incredibly the dumbest movie i have seen in...well ever. I am a fan of the genre of movies that depict the evils of drug use in bizarre and unintentionally humorous, but usually untrue ways. Can anyone forget "Reefer Madnes" (1932) or "Cocaine Fiends" (1936) or "The Trip?" (1967) They are made, I'm sure, with the intention of giving somewhat of a warning message intended for the general publics safety, but can be misleading and sometimes grossly overzealous in their efforts. And now they are just fun. I first read about this movie a few years ago and was eager to add it to my movie collection. Thank goodness for Amazon because it has been hard to find. The cast/crew alone is intriguing enough in light of the subject matter for any movie buff. Rita Hayworth, Yul Brenner, Marcello Mastroiani, Eli Wallach, E.G. Marshall, Angie Dickinson, Omar Shariff all appear and it was directed by Terence Young who made the fantastic "Wait Until Dark" (1967) and some notable James Bond movies. Well, I know now why it has been so hard to find. It is an embarrasment to film. I don't know what everyone was thinking when they collaborated on this venture. Rita Hayworth's alzheimers was obviously already setting in for her to have even CONSIDERED this role, let alone taking it. Just a year before Omar Shariff appeared in "Doctor Zhivago," one of the best movies of that decade and I don't even know what to say about Yul Brenner. Just because someone earns an Oscar doesn't mean they should stop trying. Which ever studio head OK'd production for this flick MUST have lost his job and it is no wonder American International Pictures went bankrupt less than ten years later. And to boot it was produced for the United Nations as a television project! The editing is choppy, direction only approaching mediocre at best, and the dialogue and acting at times is just downright bad. Any of the actors who participated in this movie that are still living must cringe at the mere sight of a poppy now. And with good reason. In a masochistic way I had to watch it through to the end just to see how bad it would really get. I wasn't disappointed. It was. Bad. Terribly bad. It is a keeper for movie buffs only for the cast and to make you wonder what the ____ some of the best and well-known actors of the day were thinking. If you like this genre of film, stick with the better ones mentioned above or any of the others made throughout the decades. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Lucky Lucy
I've not been one of Joan Sutherland's greatest fans, though I do enjoy the voice very much. Often, she sounds dramatically uninvolved and, as my friend remarks, always sounds like she was about to sneeze.
Ok, enough of that. She is awesome here. Yes, she may not be able to measure up to her recordings of the work, but she has found a new sense of drama, a fire within the music. I much prefer Sills in this role, who really tore up the stage (or microphone, on her cd). However, Sutherland does have quite a presence and I am utterly astonished when I hear her pluck an effortless high D at the end of the sextet. Oh my god! What I would give to have a high note like that AT ANY AGE!!!!!!!
Here she is in her mid to late fifties doing these things.
She's quite good, as is Plishka and Elvira. I've never been a huge fan of Alfredo Kraus but, with microphone distancing, he doesn't bother me nearly as much as in his studio recordings. Overall, I think it's a wonderful time at the opera. Now, for an even more incredible account, pick up Beverly Sills' version that was just released. WOW!

Return Of A Legend: Sutherland Sins Lucia At The Met
The amazing Australian soprano, Joan Sutherland, given the title of Dame Joan Sutherland in Britain, made her debut at the Met in New York City in 1961 as the tragic heroine Lucia. From that moment on, her career became a blaze of glory that the world over witnessed. She sang at all the major opera houses and theatres of the globe- Covent Garden in London (where she had first sang Lucia), The Sidney Opera House in her native Australia and of course Italy's La Scala in Milan. Joan Sutherland admits to having the fortune of incredible support from her husband, conductor Richard Bonynge, who was responsible for her success. With Bonynge, she performed in the dramatic repertoire that underwent revivals in the 60's and 70's - the bel canto masterpieces (such as this Lucia) and Bellini's majestic Norma as well as the dramatic and demanding role of Donizetti's Lucrezia Borgia. Joan's performance as Lucrezia Borgia is also available on DVD and is a sensational theatrical masterpiece. The same applies for her performance as Queen Marguerite in Meyebeer's "Les Huguenots" also on DVD and her last opera she performed before her retirement.

On this DVD, we watch as Joan Sutherland returns to the Met after a long absence to sing the role that made her a star- the vulnerable Lucia. Alfreo Kraus sings the heartbroken tenor lead Edgardo, who has a showcase suicide aria at the end of the opera, delivered with aplomb and with authentic ardor. Joan's Lucia is touching. Her "Regnava Nel Silenzio" is only a build up for the flashy hysteria in the Mad Scene. Her dramatic version is dead on and her coloratura is thrilling. Of course, Joan is past her prime in 1982 at the time of this Met broadcast and her voice may appear more faulty and less lustrous than her initial performances of the early 60's, but - hey, what's here is here. It's still delivered very well.

THE AUSTRALIAN LUMBERJACK
i hope that the title of this article is enough to describe my feelings towards this australian singing extravaganza....Dame Edna is more elegant than Joan Sutherland....i had the chance to see her live in La Scala, period 82-83 singing La Fille du regiment.......thank god Alfredo Kraus was singing with her........a lady of about 100 years old trying to act like the young Marie.....poor Joan...i remember the words of Zeffirelli when he first saw her: "she was huuuuge!i was wondering how the hell ma i gonna do Lucia with this creature".........oh, And By The Way.........the last that Sutherland has been towards Callas is JEALOUS.....i have a taped interview of Sutherland saying that even in her wildest dreamest she could ever do Traviata as Callas did....well, in order to sing traviata you just gotta have one thing : THIS HOLLY GREEK FIRE BURNING INTO YOU, THE FIRE OF SOME THOUSAND YEARS OF CIVILISATION THEATRE AND TRAGEDY...............CALLAS WAS A DRAMATIC?WAS SHE ALSO A COLORATURA??A LIRICO??? I WOULD LOVE TO SEE SUTHERLAND SINGING TOSCA (DONT MENTION THE HILARIOUS STUDIO TURANDOT)....BUT CALLAS WOULD SING PURITANI AND THE NEXT DAY BRUNHILDE!CAN YOU IMMAGINE LA STUPENDA WITH HORNS ON HER HEAD???TERRIFYING!!!!

No, I rather listen to her recordings
I'm annoyed and angered by this ignorance that is being sold as the "truth". Joan Sutherland was already singing for years in 1959 and Callas didn't "quit" because of her. Callas sang her last performance in 1965 but never officially retired. (There were plans for Norma, Medea etc.) And the 1971 Lucia is NOT the bestselling Lucia of all time. But even if it were: Charlotte Church's "Opera-Recitals" outsell Sutherland (NOT Callas!) by far, so Church is "better" than Sutherland? Get real!

Callas doesn't crack on 25% of the E-flats, there are only two in Lucia di Lammermoor and she always sang them well. And it's called verismo, such ignorance is LAUGHABLE. And guess what, in "verismo" you NEED a great technique as well. Ask Caballe, de los Angeles, Tebaldi ETC. Etc.

This DVD was recorded too late and shows us a mere shadow of a once great Lucia. Stick to the recordings.

If only it were recorded sooner...
I'd like to list severals pros for recording this so late:

1)Sutherland had a lot of experience to use for this Lucia

2)Here she does more than just singing beautifully, she's acting well too!

Before I start with the cons I'd like to correct several reviewers who've shown how ignorant they truly are:

1)Sutherland didn't force Callas into retirement, Callas never officially retired!

2)Callas does NOT crack 25% of the high notes, whoever came up with this lie?

3)As for the bestselling Lucia that isn't bestselling now because everyone already has it... Does the person who wrote this notice that he's negating the "fact" he's trying to prove? The Sutherland-Lucia is magnificent. (The one from 1971) But, and I work in the business, it's not the bestselling Lucia of all ages, I dare say it's far too expensive. The cheaper early Lucia with Sutherland and Cioni outsells the later performance without any problem. As do the early Callas-performances on EMI.

Now to this DVD: I'm really sorry but IMHO La Stupenda sounds too old and worn out for young Lucy. Her high notes are edgy not glowing anymore. Still, it is a fabulous DVD, better late than never! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The biggest misuse of film in recent history
Strikingly and incredibly the dumbest movie i have seen in...well ever. I am a fan of the genre of movies that depict the evils of drug use in bizarre and unintentionally humorous, but usually untrue ways. Can anyone forget "Reefer Madnes" (1932) or "Cocaine Fiends" (1936) or "The Trip?" (1967) They are made, I'm sure, with the intention of giving somewhat of a warning message intended for the general publics safety, but can be misleading and sometimes grossly overzealous in their efforts. And now they are just fun. I first read about this movie a few years ago and was eager to add it to my movie collection. Thank goodness for Amazon because it has been hard to find. The cast/crew alone is intriguing enough in light of the subject matter for any movie buff. Rita Hayworth, Yul Brenner, Marcello Mastroiani, Eli Wallach, E.G. Marshall, Angie Dickinson, Omar Shariff all appear and it was directed by Terence Young who made the fantastic "Wait Until Dark" (1967) and some notable James Bond movies. Well, I know now why it has been so hard to find. It is an embarrasment to film. I don't know what everyone was thinking when they collaborated on this venture. Rita Hayworth's alzheimers was obviously already setting in for her to have even CONSIDERED this role, let alone taking it. Just a year before Omar Shariff appeared in "Doctor Zhivago," one of the best movies of that decade and I don't even know what to say about Yul Brenner. Just because someone earns an Oscar doesn't mean they should stop trying. Which ever studio head OK'd production for this flick MUST have lost his job and it is no wonder American International Pictures went bankrupt less than ten years later. And to boot it was produced for the United Nations as a television project! The editing is choppy, direction only approaching mediocre at best, and the dialogue and acting at times is just downright bad. Any of the actors who participated in this movie that are still living must cringe at the mere sight of a poppy now. And with good reason. In a masochistic way I had to watch it through to the end just to see how bad it would really get. I wasn't disappointed. It was. Bad. Terribly bad. It is a keeper for movie buffs only for the cast and to make you wonder what the ____ some of the best and well-known actors of the day were thinking. If you like this genre of film, stick with the better ones mentioned above or any of the others made throughout the decades. ... Read more

Description

This dramatic feature film tells the story of a great artist whose passionate love for his country comes into conflict with his love for a woman.With several arias by Tito Schipa, this tale of love, passion, rebellion and political intrigue is set against the music of one of the 19th Century's most celebrated artists and patriots.An elaborately produced film.Dubbed in English, with arias still sung in Italian. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Exquisite Sutherland
A great performance by a once in a lifetime performer with amazing vocal resources. Viewer from SF stating Sutherland was past prime is incorrect. This was filmed in 1976 when she was very much in prime. Second Covent Garden Borgia was done in 80 but voice still immaculate.

Brava, diva!!!!!!!!
Sutherland was in her dramatic best in this tape. The opera showed off her supreme powers as the only true Dramatic coloratura soprano of our time. Dame Joan was just slightly past her prime here, but that's still way good enough to make all other sopranos pale in comparison! Truly the "Voice of the Century"!

Italian Opera no subtitles
This is an opera in Italian. I couldn't understand a word of it. I was looking for a documentary/biography on Lucretia Borgia so I bought this video. While it is of great quality and would be appreciated by someone who understood Italian and appreciated opera, it is not my taste. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A beautiful film !
To start my review I have to say that I have seen this film more than forty times !
I love this film very much and I never tire to see it !
I think it is a very good film , full of wonderful things. The cast is one of the very best I have seen . Sara Montiél is really splendid . And wow , what a couple she made with Maurice Ronet !!! They have such a very goodm chemistry together . In this film they both play some of the most wonderful and romantic scenes I've ever seen in a film . To name one of my favourites , I love very much the scenes in the jail . They really show all the power of Sara and Maurice on a screen !!
Jorge Mistrál is also very good in his role of a bandit and Germán Cobos and the rest of the cast .
Another thing I would like to comment is about the photography, so beautiful ( those wonderful sunsets over the lovely landscapes of Ronda.)
And the film is also wonderfully animated by the lovely Spanish folk songs sung by Sara Montiél . They really give life to the film too and Sara sings the songs with such grace and charm !!
Like all the reviewers that wrote about the film before me , I would like to project the wonderful poerformance of Maurice Ronet as the French sargent , José . He is wonderful at this , he makes you feel you are in front of a wonderful actor . He has such a great deal of charm and charisma !!
He was also a very talented actor and a very handsome man . He made another three films more with Sara Montiél and worked with such a great French directors like Louis Malle or Claude Chabrol . I also have read that he became a writer and director too .
I highly recommend this film and I'd give more stars if I could !!

"CARMEN" IS A WINNER! Neat Montiel-Ronet Vehicle
I really enjoyed this film. Great production values and of course the enchanting presence of Sarita Montiel at the top of her beauty and talents. "Carmen" devotees will be familiar with the plot. However I must warn you that Sarita's Carmen is not as ruthless as the others we've seen on the screen... This is Carmen with a romantic soul, a woman who seems to be victimized by her own beauty and sex-appeal. She falls out of love with Antonio (Jorge Mistral) and falls in love with Jose (Maurice Ronet) through a natural process. There's no malice even when she uses the French Commander (Amadeo Nazzari) or the bullfighter (German Cobos) to help out her two lovers. And boy.. this Carmen can sing! Not Bizet, of course, but some beautiful Spanish folk songs that compliment every situation in the film. If you don't understand Spanish you will miss a lot because some of the dialog is real witty. It's a shame that they did not put English subtitles on this one ... well, maybe when the DVD is released. I've read that there is also an all-English version of this movie called "The Devil Made A Woman" (See the Internet Movie Data Base). It will be great if they could put both versions in the same DVD.
To end my review I would like to comment on Maurice Ronet. This French actor is at his very best as Jose. He makes you feel what the character is feeling without uttering a word. (Watch those final scenes when he thinks that Carmen has betrayed him. He goes from sadness to frustration to anger to madness in a couple of minutes.) He is the ultimate screen actor and deserves to be considered one of the greatest that ever lived. In short Montiel-Ronet-Carmen is quite an unbeatable and pleasant combination. Don't miss it! By the way, if you are ordering this film here at Amazon, you might as well order the soundtrack on CD at the same time because you will want to hear those songs again.

the magnificent, seductive Sarita !
This luscious musical drama is a treat. It's a retelling of the "Carmen" story, with Sarita Montiel as the gypsy temptress. She sings song after song with sensual grace and style, and a multitude of gorgeous costumes. No gypsy girl was ever arrayed in such finery, but this is the glamour version of everything ! The La Ronda setting is exquisite, the music wonderful, the men handsome...Maurice Ronet, excellent as Jose, never looked more dashing than he does in this film.

If you like old time Hollywood musicals, and understand Spanish, try this for a change of pace...it's truly great, and Montiel is like a rose in full bloom.

Sarita Montiel in top form as Carmen!
This "Carmen, la de Ronda" in Spanish is a beautiful film that can be seen and enjoyed even if you don't understand the language. The plot is a variation of the famous "Carmen" written by Merimee and made into an opera by Bizet. There have been many films with the same topic. This version is set in Ronda, a small village in the Andalusia region of Spain during the French ocupation by Napoleon troops in the 1800's. Sarita Montiel is simply mesmerizing as Carmen the object of every male's desire... Not only does she look gorgeous but she pulls off a performance that is hard to forget... If you never seen a Montiel vehicle, "Carmen la de Ronda" is an excellent place to start... Another example of excellent casting is Maurice Ronet as Jose, the French sargent that loses everything for love of her... You will feel the erotic charge between Sarita and Maurice... In short "Carmen la de Ronda" is a jewel of a film and a showcase for the beauty and talent of one of the most charismatic film personalities of all time...the great Sarita Montiel... ... Read more