One of the most thrilling DVDs to cross my desk this year doesn't have a single action sequence or special effect. It simply features the master composer Maurice Jarre's magnificent tribute to legendary director David Lean. The concert took place in 1992 with Jarre conducting the Royal Philharmonic which played the scores the French composer contributed to Lean's films Lawrence of Arabia, Doctor Zhivago, Ryan's Daughter and A Passage to India. The DVD provides all the sad evidence you'll ever need of the sorry state of today's film soundtracks. There is no one who approaches the likes of Jarre and his contemporaries such as Elmer Bernstein and Jerry Goldsmith. Jarre's output in recent years has been far from memorable, reflecting the current status of the movie industry. Gone are the epic films he cut his teeth on, but if he never composed any scores except the ones on this DVD, his place in movie history would be secure. The sheer beauty of these compositions is enhanced considerably by watching Jarre conducting the orchestra with a no-nonsense, passionate style. Clad in a white dinner jacket, he eschews any small talk, save for a brief thank you to the audience at the conclusion. The Royal Philharmonic performs each suite magnificently and the program is enhanced by the inclusion of clips from each of the films, as well as rare photos of Jarre and Lean working together.
The DVD features a number of interesting extras including a 35 minute interview in which the composer discusses his friendship and working relationship with David Lean. Even when Lean's efforts fell short, as witih Ryan's Daughter, Jarre's superb scores would provide enough reason to to watch the films again and again. The men obviously shared a close professional relationship as well as friendship and Jarre includes the suite he composed for Lean's wedding. There is also an option to hear Jarre's commentary track over the entire concert and he provides many a fascinating anecdote. The DVD package also includes a full CD of the concert - a wonderful touch that substantially enhances the allure of this release. The set includes a booklet with extensive liner notes - something mainstream DVD releases rarely include nowdays.
If there is one frustraton with the set, it's that it unavoidably denies us the opportunity to hear Jarre's scores from non-David Lean productions performed. How thrilling it would be to see him conducting his compositions from The Train, Grand Prix and especially The Professionals. Nevertheless, this is one of the most welcome DVD releases of the year - and a "must have" for anyone who values the golden age of movie music. Congratulations to Milan Records, which saw fit to release this in such a first-rate manner. - Lee Pfeiffer
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