At the Haunted End of the Day (1981)

Film Information
"At the Haunted End of the Day" is a 1981 British documentary directed by Tony Palmer. The film focuses on author William Walton and his other half, Susana Gil, during their later life in Ischia, Italy. This music biopic offers a rare insight into the life and work of one of Britain's crucial and influential composers of the 20th century, a guy not commonly known to the general public.

Plot Overview
The story of "At the Haunted End of the Day" is greatly anchored in the personal and expert turning points of William Walton's life. Palmer utilizes reflective conversation and historical footage to sketch Walton's increase from a chorister in Oxford to an internationally recognized composer, in addition to his marriage to Susana, who emerged as his creative motivator and the pillar of his life.

Creative Approach
Director Tony Palmer uses a non-linear storytelling design, presenting various elements of Walton's life out of sequence. This technique adds a mystique that stimulates audiences' interest, making them eager to piece together the author's narrative puzzle. Interviews with Walton, Gil, and others near to the author are interspaced with archival video footages, consisting of the premiere of his first professional symphony, music rehearsal bits, and shots of Walton's picturesque home in Ischia.

Secret Themes
This biographical documentary subtly checks out numerous styles through Walton's life journey. The struggle between imaginative fulfilment and the mission for acknowledgment is evident in Walton's accounts of his early career. There's also the theme of personal sacrifice in pursuit of passion, exhibited by Walton's withdrawal from official education to focus on music structure and performance. The movie shows how the characteristics of Walton's intimate relationship with Susana added to his creative development, elucidating on the subtleties of love, companionship, and muse-artist dynamics.

Performance and Production
Though "At the Haunted End of the Day" primarily centres around the life of William Walton, it's his better half, Susana's contribution to his innovative process and individual life that includes depth and intrigue to the story. Their chemistry is compelling, and their dialogues expose the charm and challenges of their shared life. Palmer's ability in juxtaposing personal anecdotes with aspects, such as musical scores, enhances the overall audience's experience, strengthening Walton's considerable impact on British classical music. The movie is visually wonderful, with an artful mix of snapshot-like recording and the sweeping appeal of Walton's Ischia home.

Important Reception
"At the Haunted End of the Day" brought in favorable reviews for its insightful exploration of Walton's life and music. Critics applauded the movie for its interesting story, exceptional main efficiencies, and visual poetry. It was recognized with awards, including the Prague D'Or, highlighting its significant contribution to the music biography category.

Conclusion
The documentary "At the Haunted End of the Day" is an engaging research study of the interplay between life, music, and creativity, told through the life and works of composer William Walton. Its distinct storytelling method paints an appealing portrait of Walton as an artist and husband, showcasing the relationship dynamics that fueled his innovative development. The movie serves as both a mimic portrait of the composer and a testament to his long lasting influence on classical music.

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