What It’s About:
In mid-eighteenth century Venice, Josef Mysliviceck (Dyk) is a struggling composer who gives music lessons to get by. His looks and charm draw him to several powerful women who help advance his career, including the predatory Marchesa (Radonicich). Josef later finds his muse in Caterina Gabrielli (Ronchi), a gifted but mercurial singer. Eventually, his romantic exploits catch up with him as he contracts syphilis, ensuring he never attains the fame of a younger friend named Mozart.
Why We Love It:
A real-life historical figure, Myslivicek’s eventful if truncated life is vividly recreated by director Havel. A native of Prague transplanted to Italy, Josef works as hard as he plays, yet his promiscuity and carelessness with money undermine any long-term success. Beyond its talented, photogenic European cast, mellifluous musical sequences and sumptuous period settings elevate this captivating drama. If like me you’re a sucker for costume pictures, “The Bohemian” definitely fits the bill.