110 minute DVD. Farinelli, born Carlo Broschi, was the gre atest castrato singer of the 18th century. Farinelli's fath er insisted that he only sing the songs of his brother Ricc ardo, and while his fame boosted Riccardo's career, the med iocrity of Riccardo's music held him back. When the singer was given a chance to work with the great composer Handel, his brother's jealousy and Farinelli's own poorly chosen ca reer alliances stood in his way.
Director Gerard Corbiau explores the frustrations, painful insecurities and triumphs of Farinelli, (nee Carlo Broschi) the legendary 18th century castrato singer.
The life story of Carlo Broschi, who at age seven had surgery to become a castrato to preserve his sweet voice. He went on to become one of the most celebrated opera singers of the 18th century, taking on the name Farinelli. As his fame grows, tension builds with his less talented brother Riccardo. Golden Globe Winner, Best Foreign Film.
Co-produced by Alinea Films & Studio Images (France); K2 Productions, RTL, TV1 (Belgium); and Italian International Film & MediaSet (Italy). Produced with the Participation of the CNC, FilmstiftlungNordhein Westfalen GmbH & Eurimages.
Shot in Germany, Spain & Belgium.
Farinelli (Carlo Broschi) lived between 1705-1782.
Additional cast: Jacques Bourdet; Graham Valentine; Richard Reeves; Jonathan Fox; Josef Betzing; Karl-Heinz Dickmann; Stefan Mazel; and Wolfgang Grindemann.
Additional credits: Yves Vandermeeren (camera operator); Anne de Laugardiere (costume designer); Kuno Schlegemilch (makeup & hair creation); Paul Le Marinel (chief makeup); Fabienne Bressan (chief hairstylist); Tirelli Costumi Roma (costumes); François Enginger, Jean-Claude Ventura, Fernando Pacheco (assistant directors).
Farinelli: Il Castrato Reviews:
"...It's definitely worth a look and a listen..."
-- Peter Travers, Rolling Stone
"...This Gerard Corbiau film is as beautifully produced, directed and acted as one could hope for besides having historic integrity. It demands to be seen..." -- 3 1/2 out of 4 stars
-- David Patrick Stearns, USA Today
"...The film has a sleek, cultivated tone..."-- Janet Maslin, New York Times
"...A drama of extraordinary complexity, rich in meaning....A triumph of taut control and superb structuring..."
-- Kevin Thomas, Los Angeles Times
This is the only Stefano Dionsi video. Stars also making their debut in this video: Marianne Basler, Gerard Corbiau.
10024 
Fantastic movie
Music is the key
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