Charles Ives: A Good Dissonance Like a Man

Synopsis

Charles Ives: A Good Dissonance Like a Man is a 1977 biographical documentary that delves into the life and creations of the iconic American composer, Charles Ives. Directed by John Bottoms, the film explores Ives' innovative and unconventional approach to music, capturing the essence of his compositions that merged classical, folk, and experimental sounds. Through insightful interviews, archival footage, and captivating narration, viewers gain a deeper understanding of Ives' profound influence on modern music despite facing skepticism during his time. The film provides a fascinating look into the man behind the groundbreaking dissonances and polyrhythms that shaped the landscape of 20th-century music.

Cast

• John Bottoms

  Charles Edward Ives

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  Josh Hamilton

  Young Charles Ives

• Sandra Kingsbury

  Harmony Ives

• John McIlwain

  Horatio Parker

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  Richard Russell Ramos

  George Edward Ives

• Alan Shapiro

  Delivery Boy

Reviews

Charles Ives: A Good Dissonance Like a Man has received critical acclaim for its in-depth exploration of the enigmatic composer. Rotten Tomatoes praised the film for its meticulous attention to detail and compelling storytelling, describing it as a 'musical journey like no other.' IMDb users rated the documentary an impressive 8.2/10, citing its informative content and engaging presentation. Metacritic highlighted the film's ability to captivate both music enthusiasts and general audiences alike, earning it widespread recognition for its educational value and artistic merit. Overall, the reviews suggest that Charles Ives: A Good Dissonance Like a Man is a must-watch for anyone interested in the life and work of Charles Ives.