A notable opportunity came my way in late November; an invitation to see an advance screening of Maestro at the historic Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington, Mass.
Seeing the much-buzzed-about, Bradley Cooper-helmed film in a venue that couldn’t be better suited for the occasion — both stylistically and geographically — was a treat unto itself. Seeing it in community among family, friends, and neighbors in the Berkshires, where much of the movie was shot, was an added flourish that brought with it the joy of post-show applause and bravos for outstanding work.
Were I smarter and less crazed during the holidays, I’d have written about the experience ahead of the official release on December 21. We’re coming into 2024’s award season, though, and it still stands to say that Maestro will undoubtedly feature prominently in myriad ways — cinematography, sound, and Carey Mulligan among them.
Mulligan is indeed sublime and sent me down a fact-finding rabbit hole about Felicia Montealegre, Bernstein’s wife and the true anchor of the film. One aspect of her life I came to wish had been explored was her social activism, which ranged from support of Constitutional rights to anti-war movements (including her arrest on the Capitol steps), to the Black Panther Party.
after premier of Medea, December 10, 1953.
The Library of Congress is providing access to The Leonard Bernstein Collection ca. 1920-1989 for educational and research purposes.
Another welcome surprise was seeing Sarah Silverman slay her way across the screen as Bernstein’s sister Shirley, in what I hope becomes a Best Supporting nominated performance. And of course, the sweeping Tanglewood shots are a draw — if not slightly distracting for the locals as we try to spot our favorite corners on the lawn.
Maestro is available for streaming now on Netflix; those looking for the in-house experience can still find a smattering of screenings in limited theaters.
Many thanks to the Berkshire Eagle for the advance-screening seats!
