Storyline

This a film version of the opera "The Tales of Hoffmann", however it is NOT just a film of a staged performance. Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger (and the rest of "The Archers") work their usual magic here. The opera dramatises the three great romances in the life of the poet-hero presented in a series of flashbacks. Hoffmann's tales depict the struggle between human love and the artist's dedication to his work. Hoffmann loses each of the women he loves but gains instead poetic inspiration -- the ability to transform painful experiences into art.—Steve Crook

Plot Keywords

poet, dance, ballet, singing, dancing, venice italy, theatre, costume, actor, stage, diva, episodic structure, surrealism, puppet, romantic rivalry, opera singer, ballerina, greek island, paris france, dancer

Short Review

Most if not all of these performers have since died; here, they live on.

Trailer

Streaming Service

1. Amazon Video : Rent from $1.99, Or $0.00 with a Prime membership