Cast
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Deborah Voigt
as Cassandra
Dwayne Croft
as Coroebus
Bryan Hymel
as Aeneas
Susan Graham
as Dido
Julie Boulianne
as Ascanius
Richard Bernstein
as Panthus
Karen Cargill
as Anna
Kwangchul Youn
as Narbal / God Mercury
Eric Cutler
as Iopas
Paul Appleby
as Hylas
Joyce DiDonato
as Self - Host
Eduardo Valdes
as Helenus
Julie Boulianne
as Hecuba
Julien Robbins
as Priam
David Crawford
as Ghost of Hector
Crew
Director
- Barbara Willis Sweete
Writer
- Hector Berlioz
Producer
- Louisa Briccetti
- Victoria Warivonchik
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Berlioz: Les Troyens examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Barbara Willis Sweete 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2013, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Berlioz: Les Troyens took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 260 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 301 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1906 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 400 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2013, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Berlioz: Les Troyens shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Aida - San Francisco Opera, which focuses more on action than character development, Berlioz: Les Troyens offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Metropolitan Opera: Madama Butterfly and The Metropolitan Opera: Romeo et Juliette explore similar territory, Berlioz: Les Troyens stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 5, 2013
- Runtime: 4h 20m
