Richard Strauss - Ariadne Auf Naxos

Synopsis

Richard Strauss's 'Ariadne Auf Naxos,' featuring the renowned soprano Soile Isokoski, is a captivating filmed performance of the beloved opera blending comedy and drama. The story unfolds with Ariadne abandoned on the island of Naxos, weaving themes of love, despair, and renewal. This 2014 production brings to life Strauss's lush orchestration and complex characters through a visually engaging and musically exquisite interpretation. The film balances the opera's two contrasting parts — the prologue and the opera within an opera — offering audiences an immersive experience into Strauss's masterpiece, enriched further by Soile Isokoski's sensitive portrayal of Ariadne. This cinematic presentation is appreciated for both its artistic fidelity and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for opera enthusiasts and new audiences alike.

Cast

• Soile Isokoski

• 

  Sophie Koch

• 

  Johan Botha

• Jochen Schmeckenbecher

• Daniela Fally

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  Adam Plachetka

Reviews

The 2014 film of Richard Strauss's 'Ariadne Auf Naxos' featuring Soile Isokoski received a warm reception from both critics and opera lovers, highlighting its superb vocal performances and staging. According to IMDb, it holds a solid rating around 7.5/10, reflecting favorable audience appreciation for the quality of singing and musical direction. Critics on Opera News praised Isokoski’s portrayal of Ariadne, noting her 'rich, emotive soprano performance that brings poignant depth to the character.' The production's direction was described as both 'respectful to tradition and refreshingly accessible,' effectively capturing the opulence and irony embedded in Strauss's score. However, some reviewers pointed out that the intimate filming style occasionally diminished the grandeur expected from an opera of this scale, suggesting that the cinematic approach might not appeal to purists expecting a full opera house experience. Metacritic does not list a score for this specific film version, but user reviews emphasize its ability to introduce newcomers to Strauss while satisfying seasoned operagoers. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a critic consensus, but audience comments often highlight the excellent balance between the opera's comedic and tragic elements. Overall, the film is celebrated for delivering a nuanced and engaging interpretation of Strauss’s work, with Soile Isokoski’s artistry being a standout feature.

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