In the Shadow of the Stars

Watch In the Shadow of the Stars

"A behind-the-scenes look into the world of grand opera."
  • NR
  • 1991
  • 1 hr 33 min
  • 6.5  (205)

In the Shadow of the Stars is a mesmerizing documentary film from 1991, directed by Allie Light and Irving Saraf, that takes viewers behind the scenes of the San Francisco Opera's production of Giuseppe Verdi's classic opera Aida. From the perspective of the 'supers', or supernumeraries who form the opera's chorus of soldiers, prisoners, priests, and slaves, the film explores the intricate workings of a world-class opera production as well as the intimate personal lives of the supers, who come from all walks of life to take on this demanding and rewarding job.

The film opens with a magnificently staged production of the grand opera, as the warriors of Egypt and Ethiopia clash in spectacular battle on stage. But soon the camera moves off stage to focus on the lives and personalities of the supers who make this scene and others like it possible. We meet the aging but spry William S. Jones, who has been a super at the San Francisco Opera for over two decades and has played everything from a Roman soldier to a gory executioner. We hear from the introspective David Ocker, a composer and clarinetist by trade, who revels in the physicality and camaraderie of being a super. We witness the intense dedication and emotional connection that supers like Michele Culligan and Juanita Lewis bring to their roles, as they struggle to convey the nuances of their characters while donning impeccable costumes and makeup.

As we get to know these and other supers, the film deftly interweaves their personal stories with the challenges and pleasures of putting on an opera. We see the supers practicing sword-fighting and marching in formation, struggling to keep their spirits up during long rehearsals and waiting for their moments on stage. We also witness the humorous and sometimes poignant interactions between supers and opera stars, such as when one singer compliments another supers' performance, or when a male super gets kissed by a beautiful soprano. At the same time, the film gives us glimpses of the behind-the-scenes workings of the opera, such as the complicated lighting cues and set changes that must be perfectly synchronized with the performers.

Throughout it all, In the Shadow of the Stars conveys a deep appreciation for the art and craft of opera, and for the unique role that supers play in bringing these lavish productions to life. We see the pride and sense of accomplishment that supers feel when they perform before packed audiences, and we also sense the intense emotions they experience during the more tragic or dramatic moments of the opera. As one super notes, "When you realize the import of what you're doing, it's quite moving."

Beyond its appreciation for opera and supers, however, the film also offers a fascinating slice of life about San Francisco in the late eighties and early nineties. We see the city in all its diversity and cultural richness, from its bustling Chinatown to its funky Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. We hear the music of various cultures, from the soaring arias of Aida to the funky beats of a ska band playing in a local club. And we witness the political and social struggles of the time, as when protesters gather outside the Opera House to protest apartheid in South Africa.

In sum, In the Shadow of the Stars is a riveting and uplifting film that transports viewers into the world of opera and celebrates the unsung heroes who make it possible. With its compelling characters, dazzling visuals, and insightful commentary, it is a true masterpiece of documentary filmmaking that will leave viewers with a deep appreciation for the art of performance and the human spirit.

In the Shadow of the Stars is a 1991 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.

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  • Release Date
    1991
  • MPAA Rating
    NR
  • Runtime
    1 hr 33 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.5  (205)
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