Is The Metropolitan Opera: Lulu Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2015)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

The Metropolitan Opera: Lulu, a standout production of 2015, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Music landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into William Kentridge’s multi-layered production of Berg’s masterpiece stars charismatic soprano Marlis Petersen in the title role—the enigmatic and alluring woman who is equal parts femme fatale, innocent girl, and abused victim. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Music are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "William Kentridge’s multi-layered production of Berg’s masterpiece stars charismatic soprano Marlis Petersen in the title role—the enigmatic and alluring woman who is equal parts femme fatale, innocent girl, and abused victim. The men around her, whose lives she forever alters, are Johan Reuter as newspaper publisher Dr. Schön; Daniel Brenna as his composer son, Alwa; Paul Groves as the Painter; and Franz Grundheber as Schigolch. Susan Graham sings Countess Geschwitz, and Lothar Koenigs conducts Berg’s landmark score."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Anchoring the narrative with a presence that is both commanding and subtle, Marlis Petersen delivers a turn that is both technically flawless and emotionally resonant. This is Music acting at its most potent.

The direction by Matthew Diamond is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 202 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is The Metropolitan Opera: Lulu truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Music, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 10/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, The Metropolitan Opera: Lulu explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2015 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Matthew Diamond respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, The Metropolitan Opera: Lulu is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Marlis Petersen or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, The Metropolitan Opera: Lulu is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.