The Maestro

This film is worth watching just to learn the tiny bit of information provided on Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco.

If you like movies about people seeking their artistic self then this film is a sure winner. It's a thoughtful and entertaining story about a teacher bringing to the surface the talents of a student seeking his musical abilities.

It's worth every minute!

To put it in one word, this movie was BLAND! The Jerry Herst character was played as if the man was going for groceries, smiling at everyone he meets, being 'gentile', uninvolved and distanced from the life events that happen to him. Dead-faced acting skills. The maestro character was played in a cliché Italian kind of way. Sometimes it felt like he was the little brother of Watto from the Star Wars movies. The story itself was uninspiring and tedious. No depth at all.

I really enjoyed this movie, Xander Berkeley is the perfect person to portray Mario Castelnuovo Tedesco! Mr. Berkeley is always is so believable in any character he plays! This movie is a timeless piece of art. Xanders portrayal along with all the details of that era transported me back into time as though I was watching this take place in real time. I am so happy to have seen it! It saddens me to know that the film industry senselessly and purposely forgot to honor such a wonderful composers work. Genius film and genuine heartfelt work by all talents that were involved! Thank you for telling his story! LOVE, LOVED, LOVED It!

As my title says, this is a beautiful and passionate slow burn. Written by the son of Jerry Herst, it's a wonderful tribute both to Herst and to the titular character.

Xander Berkeley is excellent as Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. His real-life wife, Sarah Clarke, portrays his wife Clara and she is wonderful as always. Clarke's fluent Italian brings extra authenticity to her character.

Watching this was a rewarding experience. Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco deserves more recognition.

Chances are that you've never heard of The Maestro--Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. I certainly hadn't. But you've no doubt heard and been influenced by his teaching and his music.

The Maestro is a slow and steady burn like a warm candle flickering in a darkened room examining the challenges and beauty of art. If you are looking for explosions and fast paced drama, this isn't the film for you. But if you'd like to cozy up by the fire, crack open a good book, and get a glimpse into a life that will keep you contemplating after the credits have rolled, then welcome to The Maestro.