Opera Vertical
Vertical Opera is a documentary film directed by Jean-Paul Janssen, with climbers Patrick Edlinger and Jean-Paul Lemercier in the Gorges du Verdon. The film opens with a training sequence of Patrick Edlinger then he links the routes with Jean-Paul Lemercier "L'Ange en décongelation" (7a), in which he falls voluntarily to demonstrate the usefulness of the rope, then "Le Septième Saut" (7b+). Finally, the final scene, an anthology, consists of a close-up of Edlinger who climbs free solo and barefoot the route "Débiloff", still in the Verdon, above hundreds of meters of void, all to lyrical music. It is "Wie Furchtsam Wankten Meine Schritte", the aria for alto voice from Johann Sebastian Bach's cantata BWV 33, music not unrelated to the subject of the documentary: "How faltering and fearful my steps were".
Insights
Plot Summary
In a remote Ukrainian village, a young woman named Oksana discovers a hidden world of ancient spirits and folklore. She becomes entangled in a mystical struggle when her village is threatened by encroaching modernity, forcing her to choose between preserving tradition and embracing the future. The film blends elements of Ukrainian mythology with a coming-of-age narrative.
Critical Reception
Opera Vertical received mixed to positive reviews, often praised for its unique visual style and exploration of Ukrainian folklore, though some found its narrative somewhat abstract and challenging. It is considered a notable work within Soviet art cinema for its distinctive approach to fantasy and drama.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its dreamlike visuals and atmospheric storytelling.
- Appreciated for its deep dive into Ukrainian mythology and spiritual themes.
- Some critics found the plot convoluted and difficult to follow.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for 'Opera Vertical (1984)' is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in rural Ukraine, utilizing traditional architecture and landscapes to enhance its mythological atmosphere.
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