What drives an artist at the end of his career to devote himself completely to a musical monument one more time? In this compelling documentary, director Cherry Duyns follows the legendary Reinbert de Leeuw – pianist, composer and conductor – on his obsessive and moving journey to the heart of Bach’s St. Matthew Passion.
After a life dedicated to modern music, De Leeuw turns to Bach with an all-consuming dedication. He lives the St. Matthew Passion, breathes it, dreams of it. ‘If I could only spend the rest of my life working on the St. Matthew Passion, I would do it right away.’
With Holland Baroque, the Netherlands Chamber Choir and a young, international cast of soloists, he is working towards a moving performance in the Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam. What follows is a cinematic experience full of musical inspiration, generations that touch each other, and a search for meaning at the end of a life.
A must-see for lovers of music, cinema and stories that get deep under your skin. Back on the big screen after a long time.
Let yourself be carried away by Reinbert de Leeuw’s ultimate masterpiece – a film that will resonate for a long time.
After the film screening, the now 81-year-old Cherry Duyns will be interviewed by Dutch documentary maker Hans Dortmans (Goddelijk Varken, Palingdans).