Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices 1995
Werner Herzog's *Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices* (1995) dives into the dark, operatic life of Carlo Gesualdo, the 16th-century Italian composer whose genius was shadowed by infamy.
Director: Werner Herzog
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices* (1995) about?
This documentary unravels the life of Carlo Gesualdo, a 16th-century composer whose groundbreaking music was eclipsed by his violent crimes. Werner Herzog examines the intersection of artistry and brutality, creating a film that's as much about obsession as it is about Renaissance Italy.
Who directed *Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices*?
The film was directed by Werner Herzog, the acclaimed filmmaker known for his surreal and thought-provoking works like *Grizzly Man* and *Aguirre, the Wrath of God*.
Who stars in *Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices*?
The film features Milva, Alan Curtis, Werner Herzog, Walter Beloch, and Angelo Carrabs in key roles.
Is *Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices* (1995) worth watching?
For fans of Herzog's unique style or those intrigued by the dark allure of Renaissance history, this documentary delivers a compelling blend of drama and music. Its concise runtime makes it a satisfying watch for a deep dive into a fascinating, flawed figure.
How long is *Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices*?
The film has a runtime of 60 minutes.
Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices (1995) — Herzog's Dark Masterpiece and Its Haunting Legacy
Werner Herzog's *Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices* (1995) dives into the dark, operatic life of Carlo Gesualdo, the 16th-century Italian composer whose genius was shadowed by infamy. Blending history, music, and legend, Herzog crafts a haunting portrait of a man both tormented and transcendent. The film weaves together Gesualdo's revolutionary compositions with the violent acts that branded him a murderer, creating an atmosphere of gothic intensity. Through striking visuals and probing interviews, Herzog explores the contradictions of a figure whose artistry endured despite his crimes, making *Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices* a mesmerizing meditation on genius, guilt, and the enduring power of music.
A documentary that defies convention, this 60-minute exploration balances scholarly insight with Herzog's signature surrealism. The film's themes—madness, redemption, and the weight of history—linger long after the final note fades. Starring Milva, Alan Curtis, and Herzog himself, it's a rare fusion of music documentary and psychological drama that feels as timeless as Gesualdo's compositions.