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Strauss: Elektra

Strauss: Elektra (1980)

Feb 16, 1980 1h 50m Music

It's hard to imagine confirmed Straussians not wanting this starry Metropolitan Opera performance of Elektra. Strauss and his librettist, Hugo von Hofmannstahl, transformed Sophocles' take on Homer's tale into a harrowing opera noir. Elektra lives for one reason, to kill her mother, Klytämnestra, and her stepfather, Aegisth, the murderers of her father, Agamemnon. In contrast to Elektra's vengeful obsession, her sister Chrysothemis desires to get on with life. When their long-missing brother, Orestes, returns to do the deed, Elektra celebrates with a dance of death and, her sole purpose in life fulfilled, dies. Strauss joined the hermetic plot to music of the utmost opulence, violent and yearning by turns, evoking the cardinal principles of Greek tragedy - pity and terror.

Directed by David Stivender

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • David Stivender
  • Herbert Graf
Writer
  • Hugo von Hofmannstahl

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Thematic Analysis

Strauss: Elektra represents a fascinating example of Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director David Stivender brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1980, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Strauss: Elektra took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 155 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 1207 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1980, when this film was released:
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Strauss: Elektra shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Don Giovanni, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Strauss: Elektra offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like 1984 and A Night at the Opera explore similar territory, Strauss: Elektra stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: February 16, 1980
  • Runtime: 1h 50m

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