A Dandy Daemon
Paganini's Daemon - Allegro Films
In a very well written and carefully researched documentary/bio, Christopher Nupen explores the legendary life of Niccolo Paganini, arguably the first international musical superstar. Included with the gossip and commentary of his contemporaries are reviews (good and bad) from a variety of sources and a generous sampling of Paganini's music, ably performed by Gidon Kremer, John Williams and a Swiss/Italian orchestra and chorus.
Alternately dishy and academic, this program was part of a series of composer documentaries (others include Schubert and Tchaikovsky) undertaken by Mr. Nupen; if the others are anywhere nearly as well done as "Paganini's Daemon", then they likewise belong on a `must see' list. While we're at it, someone might send a copy to the people at the Biography Channel, just to give them an idea of how it should be done.
Oscar O. Veterano
Very Informative. But could be more interesting.
Generally it is a good DVD with extensive materials.
However, the way to organize those materials is not interesting enough--most of the materials are quatations by prominent people, drawings, paintings, plus the narration. Though there are scenes of violin playing (almost only by Kremer, and only the violin or part of the violin is shown), the scenes are not exciting and celebrating. As a result, watching this DVD is like reading a book.
I think the author might have used more intersting ways to present the history, such as scenes of actors' imitating the historical activities, scenes of violin playing by more different violinists, as used in some successful documentary DVDs,
Daemon
Outstanding documentary. Very rare to find it on a DVD. Buy it at any price. Even though it is on Region 1.
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