Il Mefistofele
“Ken Russell's modern interpretation of Arrigo Boito's Il Mefestefele”
Synopsis
Arrigo Boito's most known work is Il Mefestefele, first performed in 1868. Russell's modern interpretation presented by the Genoese Opera has Faust as an ageing hippy, who smokes marijuana and is tormented by his lost youth. Mephisto bets God that he can turn anyone to pagan life, even someone as innocent as Faust. It becomes a battle of good against evil in a flamboyant, surreal display of primary colours, PVC costumes, nurses with swastikas, rocket trips, love and even characters dressed as Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse.
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Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Ken Russell
- Screenplay & Story
- Arrigo Boito
- Original Score
- Arrigo Boito
- Original Title
- Il Mefistofele
- Country of Origin
- Italy
- Spoken Languages
- Italian
- Runtime
- 2h 17m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Ken Russell
Arrigo Boito
Arrigo Boito
Department Leadership Roster
Paul Dufficey
Production Design
Ken Russell
Director
Arrigo Boito
Writer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Il Mefistofele.
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1989
1989
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Frequently Asked Questions About Il Mefistofele
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Il Mefistofele about?
Arrigo Boito's most known work is Il Mefestefele, first performed in 1868. Russell's modern interpretation presented by the Genoese Opera has Faust as an ageing hippy, who smokes marijuana and is tormented by his lost youth. Mephisto bets God that he can turn anyone to pagan life, even someone as innocent as Faust. It becomes a battle of good against evil in a flamboyant, surreal display of primary colours, PVC costumes, nurses with swastikas, rocket trips, love and even characters dressed as Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse.
Who directed Il Mefistofele?
Il Mefistofele was directed by Ken Russell.
Who stars in Il Mefistofele?
The principal cast of Il Mefistofele includes Paata Burchuladze, Ottavio Garaventa, Adriana Morelli.
When was Il Mefistofele released and how long is it?
Il Mefistofele was released in 1989 with a total runtime of 2h 17m.
Who composed the musical score for Il Mefistofele?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Il Mefistofele was composed by Arrigo Boito.