Review of The Magic Flute (2006) by Jim H — 19 Jun 2013

In this adaptation of Mozart's classic opera, Tamino is fights for his love in World War I era trenches.

Kenneth Brannagh, whose Shakespearean adaptations don't always use the advantages of film, makes up for it in this rendition of Mozart's opera. Visual effects abound in Brannagh's best imitation of Julie Taymor, and while some of them are effective, most of the visual stylings do little to advance the plot even though they're fun to look at. The acting and the singing are the real highlights of this film; many of the actors, particularly Benjamin Jay Davis, are able to satisfy the high demands of opera while focusing their work for the film.

Overall, I enjoyed this film even though Brannagh is no Julie Taymor.