Inspired by one of the twentieth century's greatest novels, composer Lorin Maazel evokes Orwell's totalitarian nightmare, where "Big Brother" is always watching, and those guilty of "thoughtcrime" are condemned to face their worst fears in the infamous "Room 101". Filmed during world premiere performances of Robert Lepage's spectacular and psychologically gripping Royal Opera production and conducted by the composer, an international cast brings George Orwell's dark vision to shattering operatic life.
Direction
Lepage's multimedia staging is genuinely disturbing.
Score
Maazel's dissonant, relentless orchestration.
Acting
Keenlyside's shattered Winston breaks your heart.
Director
Robert Lepage
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Maazel spent 25 years composing this; Orwell's estate initially refused permission. Diana Damrau performed her dual roles while visibly pregnant.
GB
