Axiom Films Catalogue 2014 April 2014 | Page 10

BECOMING TRAVIATA (2012) A film by Philippe Béziat An intimate and fascinating documentary that invites you to go behind the curtains of one of the world’s greatest operas, Verdi’s masterpiece, La Traviata. Director Philippe Béziat offers a rare glimpse into the creative process of renowned singers and musicians as they collaborate to produce a contemporary re-telling of this classic opera at the prestigious Festival d’Aix-en-Provence in France. French theatre/opera director Jean-François Sivadier and celebrated Met Opera soprano Natalie Dessay work side by side to tirelessly craft and mould, with perfect precision, Verdi’s heroine, Violetta. Dessay’s metamorphosis is truly mesmerising. Other collaborators include the London Symphony Orchestra musicians, Estonian Philharmonic Choir singers, performers, lighting technicians and set designers who work in unison to bring to life one magnificent artistic expression. “exhilarating… a rousing, uniquely accessible rendition of one of Verdi's most glorious operas.” CLASSICALITE “very impressive” Norman Lebrecht, SLIPPED DISC / ARTSJOURNAL “elegant, thoroughly engrossing… A treat” Geoff Andrew, BFI LONDON FILM FESTIVAL “Riveting… A treat for fans of opera, the performing arts and documentaries about process” VARIETY “‘Becoming Traviata’ strikes a vibrant chord - you don't need to be an opera buff to appreciate Philippe Béziat's exquisitely observed look at performance and the creative process” LA TIMES OFFICIAL SELECTION – London Film Festival 2013 OFFICIAL SELECTION – New York Film Festival 2012 Certificate: Exempt Running Time: 113 minutes Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 Audio: Stereo and optional 5.1 Country: France Language: French and English with optional English subtitles Genre: Documentary / Opera Format: PAL Region: 2 Cat. No: AXM675 Barcode: 5060301630202