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Fierrabras

Fierrabras (2015)

Jun 01, 2015 2h 54m Music

Fierrabras of 1823 is the last of Franz Schubert’s stage works. Rarely performed to this day, this heroic-romantic opera has now been staged for the first time ever at the Salzburg Festival by famous director Peter Stein. Based on an old French 12th-century epic, the plot depicts the military conflict between Christians and Moors at the time of Charlemagne – as a backdrop to stories of love and friendship that prove to be stronger than war and hatred of otherness. The strong cast includes the “marvellously expressive miracle Dorothea Röschmann” (Die Zeit) and “Michael Schade, who exudes his exceptional tenor in Fierrabras’s heroic arias” (Der neue Merker). Under the energetic baton of lngo Metzmacher, the Vienna Philharmonic unfold “the melos, the poetry, the sweetness and the dramatic force of Schubert’s highly refined and atmospheric sound worlds” (Kleine Zeitung) in highly romantic fashion.

Directed by Peter Stein

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Peter Stein

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Thematic Analysis

Fierrabras represents a fascinating example of Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Peter Stein 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 2015, 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 Fierrabras took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 174 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 230 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2015, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike Amadeus, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Fierrabras subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Farinelli and Adolphe Appia Visionary of Invisible explore similar territory, Fierrabras stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

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: June 1, 2015
  • Runtime: 2h 54m