The Manhattan Book of the Dead
“A Ritual Opera”
Synopsis
The Manhattan Book of the Dead was my response to the ongoing AIDS crisis that was plaguing NYC (and elsewhere in the late 80s-mid 90s). I just felt like I needed to do something more concrete than merely going about my business. Putting my own particular talents to use seemed like a good way to go about it, and it was cathartic for me as well. It explored many sides of my musical personality—including the first “songs” I’d written in many years. But it also had some of the most advanced just intonation drone pieces and corresponding rhythmic structures I’d ever done. Also, the root/fifth drones heard throughout much of it was two ebows on the piano—I believe the first time that had been done..
Top Cast
Explore Star Directory →Release History & Theatrical Window
May 1, 1995
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Ching Valdes-Aran
- Screenplay & Story
- David First
- Original Score
- David First
- Original Title
- The Manhattan Book of the Dead
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- 1h 45m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Ching Valdes-Aran
David First
David First
Department Leadership Roster
David First
Writer
Ching Valdes-Aran
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Manhattan Book of the Dead.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Manhattan Book of the Dead
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Manhattan Book of the Dead about?
The Manhattan Book of the Dead was my response to the ongoing AIDS crisis that was plaguing NYC (and elsewhere in the late 80s-mid 90s). I just felt like I needed to do something more concrete than merely going about my business. Putting my own particular talents to use seemed like a good way to go about it, and it was cathartic for me as well. It explored many sides of my musical personality—including the first “songs” I’d written in many years. But it also had some of the most advanced just intonation drone pieces and corresponding rhythmic structures I’d ever done. Also, the root/fifth drones heard throughout much of it was two ebows on the piano—I believe the first time that had been done..
Who directed The Manhattan Book of the Dead?
The Manhattan Book of the Dead was directed by Ching Valdes-Aran.
Who stars in The Manhattan Book of the Dead?
The principal cast of The Manhattan Book of the Dead includes Thomas Buckner, Lisa Karrer, Karen Goldfeder, Karen Haight, Pascal Benichou.
When was The Manhattan Book of the Dead released and how long is it?
The Manhattan Book of the Dead was released in 1995 with a total runtime of 1h 45m.
Who composed the musical score for The Manhattan Book of the Dead?
The original motion picture soundtrack for The Manhattan Book of the Dead was composed by David First.