Paul Frey

This film was prepared as a introduction to a series of opera broadcasts on German television. It depicts the behind-the-scenes manoeuvrings in preparation for the annual opera festival in Bayreuth.

A psychological interpretation of the opera mixing in references to the history of Germany, Wagner’s life, German literature and philosophy. The action is centered on Wagner’s death mask. Kundry is the main character – one might read the film as the story of her redemption rather than that of Amfortas.

Michael Hampe’s acclaimed production of Wagner’s comic opera tells a charming, human, romantic love story. And yet, at the same time, registers his protest against the narrow-minded critics and the prejudiced public who for so long refused him recognition.

Richard Wagner's opera Lohengrin staged in 1987 by Werner Herzog in Bayreuth.