The Commission (1983)
This work is Woody's first entry into the narrative sphere, whereby the "story" is continually undermined with the aid of various anti-narrative strategies: In each of the eleven segments of this "electronic opera", different effects are used. Fascinated with the remarkable personality of infamous violinist Niccola Paganini and his complicated relationship to Hector Berlioz (played by artists Ernie Gusella and Robert Ashley, respectively), the author meditates over the intricacies of artistic geniality as connected not only with fame but also with the necessity of painful survival under the pressures of the art market.
Director: Woody Vasulka
Runtime: 45 min
Release Date: January 1, 1983
Cast
- Robert Ashley - Hector Berlioz
- Ernest Gusella - Niccolo Paganini
- Cosimo Corsano - The Mortician
- Ben Harris - Paganini's Son
- Andrea Harris - The Voice
- David Ossman - The Narrator
Screenplay
Editing: Peter Kirby
Production: New Mexico Arts Division, National Endowment for the Arts
Country: United States of America
Language: English
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Woody Vasulka
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is The Commission about?
- This work is Woody's first entry into the narrative sphere, whereby the "story" is continually undermined with the aid of various anti-narrative strategies: In each of the eleven segments of this "electronic opera", different effects are used. Fascinated with the remarkable personality of infamous violinist Niccola Paganini and his complicated relationship to Hector Berlioz (played by artists Ernie Gusella and Robert Ashley, respectively), the author meditates over the intricacies of artistic geniality as connected not only with fame but also with the necessity of painful survival under the pressures of the art market.
- Who directed The Commission?
- The Commission was directed by Woody Vasulka.
- Who stars in The Commission?
- The Commission stars Robert Ashley, Ernest Gusella, Cosimo Corsano, Ben Harris, Andrea Harris, David Ossman.
- How long is The Commission?
- The Commission has a runtime of 45m (45 minutes).
- Where was The Commission produced?
- The Commission was produced in United States of America.