For those who like like their Bizet straight, this is probably the best of the opera's many adaptations to date. In this relatively straightforward rendering of the classic tale, the sensuous Migenes-Johnson plays Carmen, a cigarette factory worker who ruins the life of a Spanish officer
(Domingo).
The film's chief plus is Rosi's direction, at once low-key in its documentary realism and fiery in its passion and detail. By taking their actors and cameras into the Andalusian landscape of Spain, Rosi and cinematographer De Santis have succeeded in giving a different and entirely valid feel to
the well-worn saga. The choreographer, Antonio Gades, performed similar duties on the Carlos Saura version, and Lorin Maazel's handling of the music is a standout. A serious drawback is Migenes-Johnson's voice; she seems to have been cast more for her looks than her vocal talents. leave a comment
