Since the beginnings of cinema, composers have been a frequent subject for film directors. But how close do they bring us to an honest understanding and appreciation of those composers and their music? In a five-part series, Thomas Goss explores how movies portray composers as lovers, heroes, spiritual figures, and even madmen. Along the way, the narratives of these films are examined for what they reveal about the audience as well as the composers.
Composers on Camera – How Amadeus Changed Everything
Thomas Goss takes a long view of cinematic composers, and how one film lifted their narratives from the mundane to the epic.
Composers on Camera – The Beethoven Meme
Thomas Goss offers a comparison of three recent movies about the greatest classical composer, and suggests how their different views add up to one Messianic testament.
Composers on Camera – Composer as Madman
Thomas Goss discusses composer-film specialist Ken Russell & his penchant for over-the-top portrayals, and reviews other films in which hysteria trumps drama.
Composers on Camera – Composer as Lover
Thomas Goss explores how the subject of romance is elevated to philosophical and artistic heights when merged with the identity of a great composer.
Composers on Camera – Composer as Hero
Thomas Goss compares the cinematic narrative of the epic hero-composer to our own assumptions and impulses in appreciating concert music.
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