MOVIE REVIEWS

Review by DocTerminus

I admit, it is almost impossible for me to write an informed review of this film as I have no contextual relationship with Mozart's opera/operetta **THE MAGIC FLUTE**. In fact, and may be the case with other fans of cinema, my only connection to that opera is the scenes included in the film **AMADEUS**. However, I have challenged myself to watch the entire filmography of Kenneth Branagh, so **THE MAGIC FLUTE** is not to be ignored. With that in mind, I must apologize to the massively popular opera's fans who will see my approach devoid of knowledge of any production. This film version takes place during the first world war, in a non-descript country. It follows a young soldier sent on a mission to save the Queen of the Night's daughter, Pamina. The story reveals through magic that the kidnapper may not be evil after all. I imagine this story, set to match Mozart's original story idea, may be more palatable and light. Especially the importance of miracles in a story named after a magical flute. The United Kingdom's brilliant treasure, Stephen Fry, adapted this story into one that could be relatable to England during World War I. Branagh, who directed Fry in **PETER'S FRIENDS**, helms this beautifully designed film. the production and flow of the story show why Branagh is such a fascinating director. Being unfamiliar of any specific artist recording of anything from the Opera stage, I cannot comment in good faith to the power of any specific performance. But it seems to sound good to me. But lacking Patrick Doyle, it may seem less _Branagh_. This film took years to make it to the United States in any form until it eventually appeared on DVD. Maybe it's just the obvious. Its not as important a piece stateside. I'm glad to have seen it, but will likely avoid a re-watch for a handful of years.