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The Silence Before Bach
The Silence Before Bach
7.7
/10
1,787 Ratings

THE SILENCE BEFORE BACH

Die Stille vor Bach

Directed by Pere Portabella
Spain, 2007
Musical

Synopsis

Blending historical reconstruction with very loosely linked ‘dramatic’ scenes and documentary sequences, the film constitutes a playful, painterly sequence of variations on the argument that Johann Sebastian Bach changed the way the world hears, thanks to his extraordinary ear for harmony.

Synopsis

Blending historical reconstruction with very loosely linked ‘dramatic’ scenes and documentary sequences, the film constitutes a playful, painterly sequence of variations on the argument that Johann Sebastian Bach changed the way the world hears, thanks to his extraordinary ear for harmony.

Our take

Right from the initial prowl of a camera through an empty studio and toward a piano, this pensive feature from experimental Catalan director Pere Portabella explores the complex relationship between image and music. A strange and beautiful celebration of the role Bach’s music plays in the world.