An arresting performance
Merksamer Israel | 08/22/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is one of Britten`s starkest scores, not the "fluidity" of Grimes or the sensuality of Venice.But, great music.
As this is largely a static plot, no much movement goes on stage.
The staging is very restrained, with distinct japanese influences.
The singing and acting are very good, so why only 4 stars? ENO gets the full 5, but Kultur, alas... The rransfers are good, but not more. Why in the name of G do they not include subtitles? It`s essential, even for an opera sung in English. So, for the future PLEASE!"
A Barebones Presentation
Donald K. Mckay | California | 04/13/2006
(2 out of 5 stars)
"I strongly second the previous reviewer's strong objection to the lack of surtitles.
Very few words were understandable even if the singers are singing in English. This was especially so with the female singers. The packaging contains only the titles of a few arias or scenes; no summary of the story is available. The names of the singers are given on the outside package but not their roles. It appears that this DVD is designed only for those who know this obscure opera well. The production is again bareboned and in modern dress. Without aid from the producers, who and what is going on is mostly unclear. It's good that there is a DVD available for this opera, but it is largely unsatisfactory for anyone other than a Britten expert."