Tales of Hoffman, The (1951)
“I have lost my reflection!”
Synopsis: |
Genres, Themes, Actors, and Directors:
Review: The sets and costumes (by Hein Heckroth) and cinematography (by Christopher Challis) are consistently a wonder to behold: … as are the enjoyably clever yet low-tech special effects. Unfortunately, the film’s major and significant downfall (leaning me towards only recommending it rather than calling it must-see) is that, as noted in Bosley Crowther’s review for the New York Times, “it sates the senses without striking any real dramatic fire.” Lead actor Robert Rounseville is notoriously stiff throughout (though of course his vocals, for those who enjoy opera, are impeccable): … and the final sequence is overall quite dull. With that said, most film fanatics will likely be curious to check this unusual, visually vibrant film — a favorite of both Martin Scorsese and George Romero — at least once; but don’t feel bad if it’s not quite your cup of tea. Notable Performances, Qualities, and Moments:
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3 thoughts on “Tales of Hoffman, The (1951)”
Not must-see.
I’ve seen it. Had real trouble staying awake, as I recall. Not my cup of tea. I don’t feel bad about it. 😉
There is also… that response. 😉 Which to be honest was my own initial response when I tried watching it years ago. Opera isn’t my thing.
This time around, I focused purely on the visuals, and that helped.
It does lean more toward the opera crowd… ‘a select taste’.