Watch R. Strauss - The Woman without Shadow

R. Strauss - The Woman without Shadow is a visually stunning movie that captures the beauty and complexity of Richard Strauss's masterpiece opera. Produced by the Mariinsky Theatre, the film features the renowned Valery Gergiev conducting the Mariinsky Orchestra and Chorus in a spellbinding performance that brings to life the mythical realm of the opera.

The story of The Woman without Shadow centers around the relationship between a supernatural couple, the Emperor and his wife, who are unable to bear children. In order to gain the gift of fertility, the Empress must reconcile her earthly nature with her celestial origins. Her journey takes her through a series of trials, including a descent into the underworld, where she is stripped of her shadow, a symbol of her mortality. The opera explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the search for one's true identity, through the lens of myth and folklore.

The film opens with an ethereal scene that sets the tone for the rest of the production. The chorus enters the stage in a procession, clad in shimmering robes and carrying torches. They sing a haunting melody that evokes the mysterious realm of the supernatural beings that populate the opera. When the orchestra joins in, the effect is breathtaking. The music ebbs and flows, building to a crescendo that mirrors the intensity of the action on stage.

The cast of the production is as impressive as the music. The lead roles are played by some of the most talented opera singers of our time. Nina Stemme, whose stunning voice has been praised by critics around the world, brings depth and nuance to the character of the Empress. Her singing is powerful yet delicate, conveying the complex emotions of the role with ease. Johan Reuter, as the Emperor, is equally compelling, with a voice that is rich and full-bodied. His performance brings a sense of gravitas to the story, as he struggles to balance his duty as a ruler with his desire for a child.

The supporting cast is equally impressive. Sergei Skorokhodov, as the Messenger of Keikobad, is particularly noteworthy, with a voice that is both clear and resonant. He imbues his character with a sense of urgency and importance, driving the action of the opera forward. The ensemble work is also excellent, with the chorus and dancers contributing to the overall atmosphere of the production.

The visuals of the film are striking, with sets and costumes that are both traditional and innovative. The production design is inspired by the Art Nouveau movement, with its emphasis on natural forms and flowing lines. The sets are elaborate but never overpowering, transporting the audience to the various settings of the opera seamlessly. The costumes are equally impressive, with a color palette that ranges from earthy tones to bright jewel tones, depending on the character and the mood of the scene.

Overall, R. Strauss - The Woman without Shadow is a remarkable achievement. The Mariinsky Theatre has managed to capture the grandeur and majesty of the opera, while also infusing it with contemporary energy and creativity. The result is a film that is both timeless and timely, exploring universal themes of love, power, and sacrifice that are as relevant today as they were when the opera was first staged. Whether you are a fan of opera, or simply appreciate visual storytelling at its finest, this is a film that should not be missed.

R. Strauss - The Woman without Shadow is a 2012 art house & international movie with a runtime of 3 hours and 23 minutes.