Chess in Concert
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Movie Reviews of Chess in Concert
Movie Review: Outstanding, moving production!
Summary: 5 Stars
Having only been familiar with the concept and cast albums and loving the score, I never really understood the storyline which seemed to change from production to production. With this amazing concert, it all becomes clear and once again proves the old adage: the play's the thing. All great musicals have great stories (GYPSY, WEST SIDE STORY, MISS SAIGON to name just a few). Now, finally seeing the work as a whole, I could fully appreciate the entire production. And what a production it is: I personally thought the cast was perfect right down to the smallest part and must say, my wife and I were extremely impressed with Josh Groban's performance. He has never sounded better and his acting was wonderful. Very natural and believable. Actually we thought everyone was above par in the acting department considering how difficult it can be to "act" in a concert form. Technically, everything was excellent. This is a brilliant concert from start to finish. One that we will watch repeatedly.Movie Review: New to Chess
Summary: 5 Stars
Almost all the negative reviews of both the DVD and CD versions of this concert are from long time fans of Chess. These people had expectations that I didn't because I had never heard of the musical before I saw it on PBS. I do agree with some of the negative comments, but overall from start to finish I thought this was a wonderful production. It took a few airings before I understood the story, but I enjoyed the staging, singing (including the chorus) and dancing from the beginning. And the more I see it, the more I discover something new to appreciate. I love David Bedella as the Soviet "handler". His facial expressions are a perfect balance between sinister and falsely sweet.
Keep in mind this is a recording of a live performance. You can't expect everyone to be spot on as they would have been in a studio production.
If you have no preconceived notions I think you will enjoy this version, maybe even more than the previous renditions.
Movie Review: Enigmas on a chess board in sweet voice
Summary: 5 Stars
This masterpiece is a true gift to the serious music lover.There is always a flurry of excitement in world chess tournaments: singular genius on each side, international politics and intrigue, personal life choices away from the chess board that consume each player and the audience as well. Josh Groban plays the Russian chess master in a strong and sweet voice. The musical score plays nicely with the choreography,illuminating life and death choices with each move on the board.
One sees a variety of enigmas from which there appears to be no extraction, and these are truly heart-provoking and gripping. Music is emotion that must come out to the world from the depth of the singer's soul.
So, we enjoy fine vocal performances that whet our political instincts and take us into our own emotional world of choices we make. I was very moved by this presentation at each viewing. I hope that the reader can reach that same state of emotional engagement and enjoyment.
Movie Review: WoW!
Summary: 5 Stars
I bought the original concept album while in college and just fell in love with the music. I missed the production on Broadway (but from what I have heard I didn't miss much). However, I did get to see a production at the Playhouse in Delaware with a few college friends. When I heard of the concert version and the impeccable casting of Idina Menzel, Adam Pacal, Josh Groban and Kerry Ellis I thought, "I 'REALLY' need to see this." I never thought I could enjoy the music more than I did on the original concept album but this cast completely blew me away. THIS would be my dream cast! The only thing that could have possibly made this DVD better is if it had been an actual full out production! SO, Time Rice, are you listening? Get this cast on the stage and do it up, all out! It would take Broadway by storm!!!!Movie Review: Chess in Concert a memorable experience
Summary: 5 Stars
I envy the people who had the good fortune to attend this concert. I don't know if this was a one-time concert or was performed several times. I had goose bumps when I saw hundreds of performers onstage. When the choir sang "Merano" at the beginning of the concert, I knew it would be an experience I will remember and appreciate. I am very pleased that the producers filmed this concert for all to see. Josh Groban was a real treat. What a voice and he can act. Idina Menzel was also good, but a bit her voice a bit strained. The remaining cast was excellent. I also enjoyed the immense screen that expanded the story. When first viewed, I would recommend watching the subtitles because you cannot always understand the lyrics and the meaning of the story.