Verdi: Otello (2015)
Bartlett Sher's acclaimed Metropolitan Opera staging of Verdi's Shakespeare-inspired masterpiece, conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin.
Verdi: Otello - Movie Information
- Original Title: Verdi: Otello
- Release Year: 2015
- Directed by: Gary Halvorson, Bartlett Sher
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Music
- Age Rating (US): PG-13
- Runtime: 2h 44m
- Original Language: Italian
- Spoken Languages: Italian
- Release Date (Theatrical): October 16, 2015 (United States - PG-13)
- Alternative Titles: Metropolitan Opera: Live in HD — Otello (US), The Metropolitan Opera: Otello (AU)
- Production Companies: Sony Classical, The Metropolitan Opera
- Production Countries: United States of America
Verdi: Otello - Plot
Tony Award winner Bartlett Sher's bold new production probes the psychological underpinnings of Verdi's dynamic setting of Shakespeare's great tragedy. At the helm of this performance is riveting conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin, who brings out all the cascading emotions in Verdi's turbulent score. Aleksandrs Antonenko is the Moor Otello, the triumphant general of the Venetian army who is ultimately brought down by the sly insinuations of his friend Iago (Željko Lučić). Sonya Yoncheva continues to win fans as Desdemona, Otello's faithful and long-suffering wife. With Günther Groissböck as Lodovico and Dimitri Pittas as Cassio.
Verdi: Otello - Trailer
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Verdi: Otello - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Gary Halvorson
- Bartlett Sher
Main Cast
- Aleksandrs Antonenko
- Željko Lučić
- Sonya Yoncheva
- Dimitri Pittas
- Chad Shelton
- Jennifer Johnson Cano
- Günther Groissböck
- Jeff Mattsey
- Tyler Duncan
- Eric Owens
Writers
- Arrigo Boito
Producers
- Louisa Briccetti
- Victoria Warivonchik
Verdi: Otello - FAQs
What is Verdi: Otello about?
Verdi: Otello is a Metropolitan Opera production of Verdi's powerful operatic adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy. It follows Otello, a celebrated Venetian general, whose love for Desdemona is poisoned by the scheming Iago. Conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin and staged by Tony Award winner Bartlett Sher, it's a gripping exploration of jealousy and betrayal.
Is Verdi: Otello worth watching for non-opera fans?
Absolutely. Bartlett Sher's production is praised for its psychological depth and emotional intensity, making it accessible even to newcomers. The performances by Aleksandrs Antonenko and Sonya Yoncheva are riveting, and Nézet-Séguin's conducting brings Verdi's turbulent score to vivid life. It's a compelling entry point into opera.
Where can you stream Verdi: Otello?
You can stream Verdi: Otello on Stingray Classica via Amazon Channel, or rent and buy it through the Apple TV Store. It's a great option whether you want a subscription-based viewing or a one-time purchase for a special evening.
How does Bartlett Sher's staging differ from traditional Otello productions?
Sher's production focuses on the psychological underpinnings of the drama rather than grand spectacle alone. His direction strips away operatic convention to expose raw human vulnerability, making Iago's manipulation and Otello's unraveling feel viscerally real. It's a modern, character-driven approach that earned widespread critical acclaim at the Met.
Who are the main performers in Verdi: Otello?
The cast is exceptional. Aleksandrs Antonenko takes on the demanding title role, Željko Lučić delivers a chilling Iago, and Sonya Yoncheva is luminous as Desdemona. Günther Groissböck and Dimitri Pittas round out the principal cast, all under the baton of conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin.
Is Verdi: Otello based on Shakespeare's play?
Yes — Verdi's opera is drawn directly from Shakespeare's Othello, with a libretto crafted by Arrigo Boito. Boito condensed the play masterfully, preserving its emotional core while shaping it for the operatic stage. The result is one of the most celebrated opera-Shakespeare collaborations in the repertoire.
What is the age rating for Verdi: Otello?
Verdi: Otello is rated PG-13. The rating reflects the opera's mature themes of jealousy, manipulation, and violence — true to Shakespeare's original tragedy. It's suitable for teens and older audiences, and makes for a genuinely enriching cultural experience for older students and adults alike.
What are similar operas or films to Verdi: Otello?
If you enjoyed Verdi: Otello, you might love Tosca (2001), Amadeus (1984), or Eugene Onegin (1988) for their blend of classical music and dramatic storytelling. Mozart: La clemenza di Tito (2017) and Norma (2001) are also excellent choices for fans of filmed opera productions.
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