Customer Reviews

Evening With Marlene Dietrich [VHS]

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

Recorded in 1972 in London, this is one of only two Dietrich concerts televised during her 20-odd year career as solo cabaret diva. The television special was taped over two days and later edited to a one-hour concert version. Dietrich wasn't pleased with the final result, saying that it "ain't as good," not on a par with her usual exellence. Still, if this late Dietrich concert doesn't show the diva at her most brilliant, it is still fascinating to watch her cast her spell over an audience. The artful way in which she manoevures their every emotion with her choreographed moves and song. She sings some of her old movie songs, war ballads and love songs. Highlights include her rendition of "Where have all the flowers gone." Definitely worthwile. (In the late 70's German TV made an alternate cut of the concert footage, featuring a different selection of songs. One wishes that that version too, could be released on video.)

Dietrich was a legend created by herself. She had an uncanny knack for doing the right thing at the right time (blind luck?). She made this video knowing that this would be the last time that she would perform in public. Marlene wanted to leave a perfect version of herself. She enginered every thing about the performance. Perfect.

Another Dietrich triumph. Do not listen to other reviews that say this is bad. Or for that matter Dietrich herself. This is a wonderful concert. Do not be misguided. If your a true Dietrich fan you'll love it. It's one of those that gets better and better. I've watched it several times. The price held me back along time but it really is worth it to see a real pro at work.

This was a video that should never have been made. Always a terrible singer, she had lost by this time the particular charm of her singing ability. Good camp should never be pathetic, as this performance is. I have always adored her; and this video left a bad memory.