The Music Lovers November 14, 2010

Acknowledged more for its creative indulgence and stylistic embellishment than biographical accuracy, Russell’s depiction of Tchaikovsky’s life is a feverish melodrama, emphasized by rapid montage editing and surreal imagery. Russell’s narrative, punctuated by dream sequences and flashbacks and employing lively handheld camerawork and vibrant color palettes, is a frantically paced characterization illustrating the tortured past and sexual frustrations of the famed composer. The second in Russell's series of pseudo-musical biopics, The Music Lovers features a score consisting of selections from several Tchaikovsky symphonies.