Chichester Cinema at New Park
The Full Monteverdi
CHICHESTER INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
This brilliant and unusual film by John La Bouchardiere has adapted Claudio Monteverdi’s Fourth book of Madrigals (1603), one of the most moving collections of Renaissance vocal music, and brought it to life as a contemporary drama for the screen. The Full Monteverdi follows the simultaneous break-up of six couples, from shocking revelation, vengeful anger and onto erotic longing for reconciliation. Vulnerable and disarming, it draws viewers into its emotional journey and intensely moving portrait of contemporary love as, seated in a restaurant, the six couples begin to quarrel over their dinner. Onlookers are drawn to the interactions of their fellow diners, yet also wary of their invasive gaze, as the relationships fragment before their eyes. The couples fight over moments in the past, and then reflect on better times and unrealised dreams. Ultimately, the six (singing) lovers are left to contemplate life alone. Taking place over the course of the evening and following morning, with several scenes shot as flashback, the film is thrillingly sung by I Fagiolini, under Robert Hollingworth, with actors miming the words in perfect synchronisation. This is an unconventional, challenging musical experiment, combining theatre, music and cinema, having strong associations with Chichester as the live presentation was first performed at the 2004 Chichester Festivities.
We hope to welcome director John La Bouchardiere and musical director Robert Hollingworth for the Tuesday 26 August screening to introduce and discuss their film.
A DigiBeta Presentation
Tues 26 Aug 18.30 (Tickets £7)
Thur 4 Sep 14.00 (In The Studio - Tickets £5)
UK · 2008 · John La Bouchardiere · 60min
