La Boheme (1982)
2009 DVD release, Deutsche Grammophon, 125 minutes
Featuring Teresa Stratas, Jose Carreras, Renata Scotto, Richard Stilwell, Allan Monk, James Morris
Finally, Deutsche Grammophon has released a masterfully restored version of this stunning performance. This features restored video, remastered audio with options for stereo or 5.1 surround, choices of subtitles in six languages, and the BTS featurette. If you have the 1999 Pioneer release, this is a fabulous upgrade.
This was filmed live at the 16 Jan 1982 performance for a MET telecast and features an all-star cast, led by the amazing Teresa Stratas. The film shows the sometimes inadequate lighting, due to the non-studio sets. However, this DVD has restored it and given it a much clearer and detailed picture. The sound is remastered beautifully and features a crisp 5.1 channel as well as a stereo option. The sound is much, much sharper and has more depth than the previous DVD version.
One of the largest differences for me was the option of choosing or removing subtitles. The older disc has permanent English titles, which was not my choice. This one gives you the option of six different languages or simply having no subtitles at all. Fabulous!
This new version also features the featurette, "Zefferelli on La Boheme". Although the Pioneer DVD said that it was included, it wasn't. You could only see it on the VHS tape. The featurette is about 20 minutes long, I think and show the set being assembled on stage and Mr. Zefferelli directing the singers in a few scenes. Very fun and informative as well as providing a nice glimpse behind-the-scenes. This DVD comes with a nice booklet that gives you an overview of each chapter and tells you about the production.
All in all, this is a fabulous version, worht adding to your collection or upgrading from the previous edition. Carreras and Stratas give excellent performances as Mimi and Rodolfo, emotional, heartfelt, beautifully acted and sung! This is my very favorite version of Puccini's masterpiece, and one that I watch over and over. The new DVD release definitely wins praise from me and I highly recommend it for any fans of Boheme or any of the singers.
