Search - Mozart - Don Giovanni on DVD

Barcelona's "Don" better than anemic Salzburg version!

Evan M. Malin | 07/11/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This predominantly Spanish cast handles the Mozart classic effortlessly. Carlos Alvarez is in even better vocal and acting form than on the Muti DVD, being both handsome and despicable in the same breath. Sonia Ganassi is an impassioned Elvira, and Maria Bayo hits a true note of pathos and dignity as Donna Anna. Jose Bros (Why is he not at the Met????) continues to be one of the opera world's few real successors to the Wunderlich and Bjoerling roles. He acts realistically, with style and verve, and sings with depth and emotion. Ringing high notes and excellent phrasing complete his portrait. The rest of the cast is also excellent, and the direction is credible, and is in alignment with the original story - just updated to the early 1940's. Setting is integrated ino the story, and it works! (Unlike the bizarre contemporary Salzburg version with Hampson, with the gratuitous girls in undies, and people walking around in circles - who cares!)

Quite recommendable, even for a first time viewer!"

Don Giovanni

Bruce M. | NYC | 09/15/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A first rate prodution on all levels!

The music (Mozart!); the voices (the whole cast, though the Commendetore could have been deeper in bass)!; the acting/staging!(great interpretation-- Franco's 1930s Spain)!; Set Design (inspired)! The orchestra... on the money!

The only flaw in the DVD is the subtitles. Many times the translations were off (sometimes way off) in their timing and the attachment to the singer singing the line.

Despite the flaw of the subtitles, this production is well worth it. It would be very hard to find a better production. This version joins my favorite DON GIOVANNI DVDs... The Peter Sellars', DON GIOVANNI with the Perry twins, and Joseph Losey's classic DON GIOVANNI version with Ruggero Raimondi."