The Maestro

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.

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!

This film is what Filming should be like. No special effects, just a great script and talented actors to portray the characters. Beautifully filmed, on a micro budget. wonderful direction. Xander Berkeley and Leo Marks, worked so well together. I felt like I was transported to LA 1949? This film was based on the screenwriters Father, Jerry Herst. CV Herst is not a first time writer. I expect to see more films that he writes and produces in the future. Happy to see this talent come to life,

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.

I was most taken and shaken by the gentle and careful pacing of this film. Xander's Accent was excellent and character innate.

If anything reminds of the course of service in art it's this: We Need You Not To Remember Us For What We Did, But Remember Yourselves For What You Can Do.

I enjoyed the actors, especially the Landlady who brought this subtle but very unique touch of humanity and compassion that makes her very forgivable. The Scenery and Shots kept me focused on both story and without need of the period in which it took place, made a timeless story come to life.

In order for something to live forever it doesn't have to be remembered, but reflected and Tedesco's influences will live forever because he made this place better than he found it.....and those whom he taught carried after him, the inspiration forward for those after them.

I was fortunate enough to meet many of those involved with this film and was so grateful for such a needed simple message for humanity: Don't wait to lose something in order to appreciate it.