Alcina
Alcina

Movie spotlight

Alcina

1999
Movie
159 min
Italian

Handel's Alcina. Anonymous libretto, adapted from the libretto of Riccardo Broschi's "L'isola d'Alcina", based on Ludovico Ariosto's "Orlando furioso" (uncredited)

Insights

Director: Umberto EcoGenres: Opera, Classical Music

Plot Summary

Alcina is a Baroque opera in three acts by George Frideric Handel, with a libretto by Antonio Fanzago. Set on a magical island, the sorceress Alcina has enchanted many men, including Ruggiero, who is stranded there. Ruggiero's betrothed, Bradamante, arrives in disguise to find him, encountering Alcina's enchantments and the challenges of freeing Ruggiero from her spell.

Critical Reception

While the original opera by Handel is a celebrated masterpiece, specific critical reception for the 1999 production directed by Umberto Eco is not widely documented in a generalized manner. However, Handel's Alcina is consistently praised for its stunning arias, dramatic intensity, and innovative musical structures, making it a staple of the Baroque opera repertoire. Productions are generally lauded for their vocal virtuosity and imaginative staging.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its beautiful and challenging arias.

  • Recognized for its complex emotional depth and musical innovation.

  • Often noted for its intricate plot and the sorceress Alcina's captivating role.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this 1999 production is not readily available. However, general audience reception of Handel's 'Alcina' typically highlights its enchanting music and dramatic storytelling.

Awards & Accolades

None notable for the 1999 production.

Fun Fact

George Frideric Handel's 'Alcina' premiered in London in 1735 and was one of his most popular operas during his lifetime.

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