A Hand of Bridge 2017
In this striking 9-minute micro-opera adaptation, Frank Borin brings Samuel Barber's *A Hand of Bridge* to vivid life, capturing the tension and intimacy of two couples whose card game exposes more than just their hands.
Director: Frank Borin
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Hand of Bridge (2017) about?
This 9-minute film plunges into the hidden lives of two bridge-playing couples, where every card dealt exposes a secret. As the game progresses, their polite conversation unravels into raw confessions of longing, regret, and forbidden yearning. Barber's music amplifies the tension, turning a simple evening into a high-stakes emotional reckoning.
Who directed A Hand of Bridge?
Frank Borin directed this adaptation of Samuel Barber's micro-opera, infusing the short film with cinematic tension and operatic flair.
Who stars in A Hand of Bridge?
The cast features Mary Dunleavy, Sarah Joy Miller, David Miller, and Bernard Uzan, with additional performances by Alissa Bourne and Ben Davis.
Is A Hand of Bridge (2017) worth watching?
While unrated on IMDb, the film's concise runtime and Barber's iconic score make it a compelling watch for opera fans and short-film enthusiasts alike. Its emotional intensity and clever storytelling offer a rewarding experience in under 10 minutes, though those seeking action or spectacle may find it too subdued.
How long is A Hand of Bridge?
The film runs for 9 minutes, offering a tight, immersive experience that packs a punch in a brief runtime.
About A Hand of Bridge (2017) — A Micro-Opera of Secrets and Scandal
In this striking 9-minute micro-opera adaptation, Frank Borin brings Samuel Barber's *A Hand of Bridge* to vivid life, capturing the tension and intimacy of two couples whose card game exposes more than just their hands. As the evening unfolds, whispers of hidden desires, unspoken fears, and daring fantasies swirl beneath the surface of their polite bridge soirée. The compact runtime belies the emotional depth on display, with each character's inner world unfolding in real time. Borin's direction emphasizes the claustrophobic atmosphere of the setting, turning a simple game into a psychological chess match where every deal could reveal a secret. The score's soaring melodies and Barber's signature lyrical intensity heighten the drama, making *A Hand of Bridge (2017)* a compelling exploration of human connection—or its absence.
This adaptation of Barber's 1958 work transforms a deceptively quiet social ritual into a micro-drama of raw emotional exposure, where the stakes feel as high as the music itself. With Barber's composition at its core, the film blends operatic grandeur with intimate storytelling, creating a unique cinematic experience that lingers long after the final card is played.