Fellini, Federico, Baas, Balduin, Bonacchi, Ronaldo, Colosimo, Clara, Labi, Elizabeth, Villella, Ferdinando	...	(Director)
Federico Fellini, Federico Fellini	...	(Writer)
Balduin Baas	...	Conductor
Clara Colosimo	...	Harp player
Elizabeth Labi	...	Piano player
Ronaldo Bonacchi	...	Bassoon player
Ferdinando Villella	...	Cello player
Franco Iavarone	...	Bass tuba player
David Maunsell	...	First violin
Francesco Aluigi	...	Second violin
Andy Miller	...	Oboe player
Sibyl Mostert	...	Flute player
Franco Mazzieri	...	Trumpet player
Daniele Pagani	...	Trombone player
Luigi Uzzo	...	Violin player
Cesare Martignon	...	Clarinet player
Umberto Zuanelli	...	Copyist

Comments: DIT 136

Summary: Legendary Italian director Federico Fellini (La Dolce Vita, Amarcord) offered up this departure in 1979, centering on the travails of an orchestra and the relationships within it. Aiming for a more sober, studied approach than in his other work, Fellini explores the dynamics of the musicians as they prepare for a concert under the tutelage of a belligerent conductor. Shooting in the style of a television documentary with interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, Fellini manages to create the subtly absurdist humor he is known for while still drawing parallels to modern society from this troupe of musicians. Featuring the lush musical score of longtime collaborator Nino Rota (The Godfather) and Fellini's unique visuals, The Orchestra Rehearsal is a must for both fans of the director and the uninitiated. --Robert Lane