In the Shadow of the Stars (1991) User Reviews (4)

Well-edited, beautifully filmed --

[LanaM · 10/10 · 11 January 2000]

As an aspiring opera singer myself and somewhat familiar with San Francisco Opera, I was interested to see how this documentary would play. I was amazed at how well edited this film is. The stories of the singers "blend" nicely, interweaving in such a way that you never lose track of who's who. You actually start to care about these people. It is truly the story of the **chorus**, and as such, no credits are given to the individual singers whose stories were told so beautifully.

This is a film I watch again and again, especially when I need a "boost." The scenes from the actual performances are wonderful (although I found at least one error in the identification of one of the scenes). This is a must-see for anyone with an affinity for the world of opera.

not just for music lovers

[mjneu59 · 9/10 · 28 November 2010]

This fascinating backstage documentary shines a spotlight on the unsung (pun intended) heroes of the San Francisco Opera Chorus, a collection of otherwise faceless voices now finally given the attention they so rarely receive. The title of the film spells out their predicament clearly enough, and although many don't hesitate to share their antipathy toward the stars (lead tenors, in particular, are called neurotic and vain) the candid interviews disprove the notion that inside every chorus member is a soloist trying to get out. The dreams they share and the compromises they make aren't particular to the opera stage, but where art imitates life the opposite can be true as well, and their stories are often more dramatic than any opera libretto. One lands a coveted soloist gig in Europe, only to see the Opera House burn down before signing her contract. Another relives his childhood in a Bronx hellhole, telling of his nervous breakdown at age 18. Ironies abound, including the choice moment when a collection of preening, overdressed society snobs are compared to the more casually (in some cases slovenly) attired singers preparing for another night's hard work. All in all it's a long overdue tribute, with generous musical highlights.

Nice Documentary If You're Interested in the Subject

[Michael_Elliott · 17 May 2012]

In the Shadow of the Stars (1991)

** 1/2 (out of 4)

Oscar-winning documentary covering the performers who are often overlooked when people go to the opera. "In the shadow of the stars" is basically referring to the people performing their jobs, hoping for their big breaks while not getting that much attention in their current positions. There's no question that this is a pretty interesting documentary but I think the people are going to be most effected by it are those actual opera fans or those who are in the same position as the people here and can connect with them. I think the best thing that the film has going for it is that it actually makes you familiar with some of the lesser known people who work. I thought it was fascinating hearing from people who have been waiting years for their big break and we get to hear the daily drama that goes on. This could be rehearsals where they're not working out as well as they hoped or it could be in their personal lives where the stress is simply making things bad at home. Throughout the picture we're introduced to several people and all of them discuss their careers and lives. Some of the stories get repeated to the point where you feel as if you're hearing it over and over but for the most part the film keeps you drawn in and entertained. While I personally wouldn't have given it an Oscar, there's still no question that it will be enjoyed by those interested in the subject.

The "Shadow" Shines

[josephelderman · 10/10 · 3 April 2010]

I caught this finely crafted and insightful documentary on cable today.

Though the title "In The Shadow of The Stars" is appropriately worded and after the viewing has a wonderful depth to it's meaning, you would never expect such access and candidness in the final content of the film. When you think of opera - at least when I do - there seems to be a mystery behind all the productions. And most might call it a vain curiosity. Who are these singers? How do the stage companies manage elaborate productions? And to be honest, although I appreciate and recognize the talent and dedication involved, I couldn't exactly call myself a devoted follower of that particular form of entertainment. In fact, I was even hesitant about viewing a documentary on the subject. But after watching this amazingly put together - and deservedly Academy Award winning documentary - I'm almost sure to reevaluate all that I enjoyed (or not enjoyed) about the opera initially and look deeper and more thoroughly at this theatrical form of entertainment.

You have making of docs for movies, and of course reality television is rife with behind the scene programs that let you into the workings of a multitude of everyday businesses and corporations. But this film allows you to almost feel a part of a that operatic world without having experiencing it first hand.

It's humorous the types of folks - from all walks of life - who are (secretly?) opera singers. It's as though you found out your high school principal was moonlighting as a stripper. Not that I'm comparing these two forms of performing, but the eye opening reveal of who is a part of these productions, is still there. An example of someone you would most likely never suspect of being an opera singer who's profiled in this film: a truck driver!

If you enjoyed "Every Little Step" - the documentary on the recent Broadway production of A Chorus Line, then you'll be delighted, enthralled and emotional about this raw and fantastic film. "In The Shadow of The Stars" brings humanity and excitement to a world that is rarely revealed.