Film
What's on at the cinema plus reviews of the latest movie and DVD releases
Bookmark this pageDon Quixote (1973)
Director: Rudolf Nureyev, Robert Helpmann
Movie review
From Time Out Film Guide
A film of Petipa's 19th century Russian ballet, publicised as being produced with 'full film techniques' rather than as a straightforward record of a stage performance. It nevertheless falls into the trap of theatre conventions (heavy make-up, even heavier hamming, unvarying lighting for each separate scene, crude blackouts to indicate changes of locale, identical dress for the populace) without taking advantage of the fluidity and mystery possible in film. The one sequence that works is a moonlit pas de deux for Nureyev as the jolly Barber of Barcelona (a more suitable title, as the ballet bears no resemblance to Cervantes' masterpiece) and coquettish Lucette Aldous of the steely feet and spiky eyelashes. Otherwise it's unremitting dancing, enthusiastically performed by members of the Australian Ballet. For Rudi-watchers and balletomanes only.Author: JMu
Cast & crew
Director: Rudolf Nureyev, Robert Helpmann
Producer: John L Hargreaves
Cast: Robert Helpmann, Ray Powell, Rudolf Nureyev, Francis Croese, Lucette Aldous, Colin Peasley full cast
Duration: 111 mins
Top Stories
Ridley Scott interview
Director Ridley Scott tells Cath Clarke why he's making a science fiction comeback
Cannes Film Festival 2012: half-time report
Dave Calhoun reports on the hits, misses and a shocking new masterpiece from Michael Haneke
What do you think?
Post your review now