Le Maître de musique (1988) - film review

A celebrated opera singer, Joachim Dallayrac, stuns the world when he announces his decision to retire and coach one single pupil, Sophie Maurier.   Later he meets a petty thief, Jean Nilson, whose singing voice so impresses him that he insists Jean becomes his second pupil.   Under intense pressure from Dallayrac, Jean and Sophie become world class singers and their proximity naturally brings them together.  Dallayrac persuades his two star pupils to enter a competition hosted by the Prince Scotti, not realising that Scotti, his erstwhile rival, intends to use the competition to exact a cruel revenge...

Whilst it is relatively easy to be seduced by its sumptuous photography and heartrending music, Le Maître de musique is not entirely satisfying as a piece of cinema.  In common with many of Gérard Corbiau’s films, attractive production values cannot disguise a threadbare plot, weak characterisation and a shameless affinity for unsubtle clichés.   Although the acting is not particularly bad, the performances do not succeed in endearing the characters to the audience.   Some of the accompanying music also appears to be ill-chosen (why is there so much Mahler?  Is Corbiau attempting a low budget re-make of Death in Venice?).  Also, it is too noticeable that the actors’ voices do not match with the singers who provided the soundtrack.  Despite such obvious faults, the film is not without its charms, and for those who like their classical music ladled thickly over chocolate boxy period dramas, Le Maître de musique could pass for entertainment with some artistic merit.

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The film is sumptuously made, with gorgeous settings, costumes and scenery. The acting is good (although with the exception of the maitre, the roles are not particularly challenging). It’s a pleasant period melodrama with beautiful singing and music, and the psychology of the drama is interesting. A very nice entertainment movie. 
Dorota Dyman (USA)

The most beautiful film ever made. Acting is superb throughout, and the music is absolutely captivating. All of the actors are very captivating, and the music is just mesmerizing. Having been a musical prodigy myself, this film touched me deeply. I could watch it again and again. This movie is one of a kind, and very beautiful touching. You will find yourself watching it repeatedly and clapping out loud at certain points. I would give this film 10 Stars if I could.
Tam (NYC / France) 

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