Otello
Synopsis
Herbert von Karajan directed this film of Verdi’s Shakespearan masterpiece as well as conducting the Berlin Philharmonic. As the tragic Moor of Venice, arguably his greatest role, John Vickers (in the words of critic David Cairns) "commands both the notes and the moral grandeur of the part. … And he has the aura of greatness – greatness of heart, of bearing, of musical and dramatic conception". Mirella Freni is a heartbreakingly lovely and fragile Desdemona, while the fine English baritone Peter Glossop plays the villainous Jago.
Top Cast
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Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Roger Benamou
- Screenplay & Story
- Arrigo Boito, William Shakespeare
- Original Score
- Giuseppe Verdi
- Original Title
- Otello
- Country of Origin
- Germany
- Spoken Languages
- Italian
- Runtime
- 2h 20m
- Production Studios
- Deutsche Grammophon
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Roger Benamou
Arrigo Boito, William Shakespeare
Giuseppe Verdi
Ernst Wild
Department Leadership Roster
Georges Wakhévitch
Production Design
Ernst Wild
Director of Photography
Arrigo Boito
Writer
Roger Benamou
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Otello.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Otello
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Otello about?
Herbert von Karajan directed this film of Verdi’s Shakespearan masterpiece as well as conducting the Berlin Philharmonic. As the tragic Moor of Venice, arguably his greatest role, John Vickers (in the words of critic David Cairns) "commands both the notes and the moral grandeur of the part. … And he has the aura of greatness – greatness of heart, of bearing, of musical and dramatic conception". Mirella Freni is a heartbreakingly lovely and fragile Desdemona, while the fine English baritone Peter Glossop plays the villainous Jago.
Who directed Otello?
Otello was directed by Roger Benamou.
Who stars in Otello?
The principal cast of Otello includes Jon Vickers, Mirella Freni, Peter Glossop, Stefania Malagú, José van Dam.
When was Otello released and how long is it?
Otello was released in 1973 with a total runtime of 2h 20m.
Who composed the musical score for Otello?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Otello was composed by Giuseppe Verdi.