Le Nozze di Figaro - The Met (1985)

Le Nozze di Figaro - The Met Poster

From the "James Levine: Celebrating 40 Years at the Met" DVD box set. Jean-Pierre Ponnelle’s landmark production of Mozart’s most human comedy provides the perfect setting for this superb cast under James Levine’s ebullient leadership. The philandering and arrogant Count Almaviva (Thomas Allen) is no match for his wily servant Figaro (Ruggero Raimondi), whose soon-to-be-wife Susanna (Kathleen Battle) is as manipulative as she is charming. Add in one beautiful, disillusioned Countess (Carol Vaness) and one irrepressible, testosterone-laden teenage boy (Cherubino, played by Federica von Stade), and it’s no wonder some critics say this is the perfect opera.

Overview of 'Le Nozze di Figaro - The Met'
"Le Nozze di Figaro - The Met" (The Marriage of Figaro), produced in 1985, is an operatic work broadcast live from The Metropolitan Opera in New York City City. It is a film adaptation of the internationally acclaimed opera by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, featuring a world-class cast under the expert instructions of James Levine.

Property
The story focuses on the events leading up to a single day: the wedding of Figaro and Susanna, servants to Count Almaviva and his wife, Countess Rosina. The plot takes a stir when the Count begins revealing interest in Susanna, threatening to reinstate an ancient law enabling the lord to take the virginity of any woman in his territory prior to her wedding.

Strengths within the Film
One of the most crucial components in "Le Nozze di Figaro - The Met" is the flawless efficiencies by the lead actors. Popular baritone Ruggero Raimondi is the protagonist Figaro, which he carries out with a persuading funny bone and vocal durability. Kathleen Battle shines as Susanna, providing an aesthetically and vocally sensational efficiency. Frederica von Stade's emotional representation of Cherubino is likewise notable. Thomas Allen's Count Almaviva is impressive and reliable, while Carol Vaness as Countess Almaviva delivers the emotional weight and singing expertise proper to her part.

Direction and Music
James Levine's skillful musical instructions is acknowledged commonly. His understanding of the nuances of Mozart's music is remarkable as he browses the ups and downs of the drama and the score. The dazzling cast integrated with Levine's enthusiastic assistance brings the characters from the 18th-century tale to life.

Additionally, the Met Orchestra and Met Chorus impress with their precise synchronicity and dynamic range, adding a layer of depth and completely immersive operatic atmosphere to the movie.

Production Values
"Le Nozze di Figaro - The Met" boasts a high production value; the set design successfully catching the time period and lifestyle of the characters while allowing for the splendour of the performances. Also, the costume styles by Peter J. Hall are appreciated, for they add depth to the characters and the timeframe in which the story is set.

Conclusion
In summary, the 1985 production of "Le Nozze di Figaro - The Met", is more than simply an adjustment of Mozart's opera; it is a marital relationship of outstanding performances, experienced directorship, and high production values. It acts as a tip of the ageless power of Mozart's music and the enormous wealth of skill that the Metropolitan Opera has actually housed for many years. It stands as a prototype of how an opera broadcast can deliver a cinematic experience, blending music and drama in an engaging story delivered by an outstanding ensemble cast.

Top Cast

  • Carol Vaness
  • Kathleen Battle (small)
    Kathleen Battle
  • Ruggero Raimondi (small)
    Ruggero Raimondi
  • Thomas Allen (small)
    Thomas Allen
  • Frederica von Stade (small)
    Frederica von Stade
  • MET Orchestra (small)
    MET Orchestra