LA BOHÈME - the movie - Danza Ballet

ANNA NETREBKO – ROLANDO VILLAZóN – Feature Film of Puccini’s

The pairing of one of the most beloved operas of all time with one of the world‘s most popular operatic couples is a recipe for success. And rarely has Puccini’s La Bohème had such a photogenic and engaging cast. "Director Robert Dornhelm focuses entirely on his stars Netrebko and Villazón, whose incredible presence carries the film along.

There’s room for big emotions, powerful voices, grand opera and tremendous cinema," writes one of Vienna’s leading dailies. While realism characterizes the set design and costumes, Dornhelm conjures up a dream-like atmosphere with mixed color and black-and-white flashbacks, evocative fades and other special effects. Yet the film is fully Netrebko’s and Villazón’s. Dornhelm made it clear from the start that he wanted to build a monument to the two singers. And with this five-million-euro production, he has amply achieved his goal.

Paris in the 1830s. Four friends share a drafty Parisian garret. Though leading a life of privation, they are buoyed by good spirits: the writer Rodolfo, the painter Marcello, the musician Schaunard and the philosopher Colline. It is Christmas Eve, and they decide to celebrate in their favorite pub, the Café Momus. Rodolfo stays behind to finish an article. There is a knock at the door; their neighbor Mimì, whose candle has gone out, asks for fire. Rodolfo is fascinated by her. It is love at first sight!

LA BOHÈME – the movie – ANNA NETREBKO & ROLANDO VILLAZÓN

The new lovers catch up with Rodolfo’s friends at the Café Momus, where Marcello‘s former mistress Musetta turns the evening into a spirited event. The light-hearted mood of Rodolfo’s and Mimì’s first days together does not last, however, for Mimì develops a fatal illness. Though they agree to stay together, Mimì leaves her lover. Only when she is desperately ill and dying does she return to the garret where she once was so happy – and to Rodolfo, the man she still loves with all her heart…

La Bohème has had a successful theatrical release in over 100 cities throughout the U.S. It will be broadcast nationally on the PBS Television Network on December 23rd

“Succulently dramatic…a tribute to the star’s power.” – THE TIMES

“Netrebko sings with feeling and imagination and Villazón is an inspired, golden-voiced Rodolfo.” – GRAMAPHONE

“The exuberant, world-class performers blast you away… the screen fizzes with charismatic interplay and fun… exquisite music. – METRO

“Breathtakingly dramatic and emotional… full to the brim with some of the best vocal talents of today” – OPERA NOW MAGAZINE.

LA BOHÈME – the movie – ANNA NETREBKO & ROLANDO VILLAZÓN