A Stravinsky Portrait

About This Movie

A Stravinsky Portrait is an intriguing glimpse into the mind of this groundbreaking composer. Filmed in various settings—his home in California, amidst the vibrant life of London, and the disciplined atmosphere of Hamburg's orchestral rehearsal—the film captures Stravinsky's nuanced conversations with friends and collaborators. The pacing is quite contemplative, allowing you to absorb the atmosphere of creativity and intellectual exchange. You have these discussions that reveal his thoughts on music and dance, including insights shared with George Balanchine about the Variations. It’s all very personal, yet it touches on broader themes of artistic collaboration, making it a unique snapshot of an era and a genius at work.

A Stravinsky Portrait was released primarily as a television movie, which does limit its physical availability. Collectors often seek out various formats, though it seems to be most prominent on VHS and a few early DVD releases. The scarcity of decent prints contributes to its appeal among those who appreciate not just Stravinsky’s music but also the documentary’s intimate portrayal of his life and environment.