Lisztomania was released in 1975 by Ken Russell (Altered States, Tommy), and features Roger Daltrey as Franz Liszt. This film is incredibly off the wall. As the same director/actor pair that led Tommy to such heights are present here, one should have some idea of what to expect. There is a much more erotic and human feel to Lisztomania. The title, set during the 19th century, focuses on the stratospheric rise of Liszt the composer. Viewers will encounter drama, love (forbidden and free), and increasingly-bizarre happenings as the film continues to spin along. I believe that the only reason why the film failed to reach the same level of success as Tommy had to be the distinctly different setting in which this film is placed.
The Warner Archive DVD release is incredibly sharp, and the various compositions (laid down primarily by Rick Wakeman of Yes) do much to marry the classical with the then-contemporary. Ringo Starr even makes an appearance as the Pope; the film walks the tightrope between film brilliance and insanity. The care in which the Warner Archive has taken in bringing the film over to the DVD format makes the $17.95 purchase price of the film a stellar value.
Make it a point to check out the Warner Archive’s latest releases; beyond Lisztomania, the Hercules, Samson and Ulysses and Damon and Pythias titles has had a tremendous transfer to the DVD media. Take a look at the Warner Archive shop (listed above) for more information about these and other titles. 2012 is a banner year for the Warner Archive, and I have no doubt in my mind that they will have an amazing slate to start out 2013.
Rating: 8.7/10
Lisztomania (DVD) / 2012 Warner Archive / 103 Minutes / http://www.wbshop.com
