Mademoiselle Paradis

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Peter G 11/26/2023 This film by Barbara Albert is the thoroughly engrossing actual story regarding the blind pianist Maria Therisia Paradis who was temporarily able to regain her vision with the controversial treatment from an innovative figure Dr. (?) Mesmer (origin of the expression mesmerized) in 18th century Vienna. His treatment of Paradis' condition, which was perhaps related to ocular amaurosis had some benefits but this muscular disorder affected Paradis in such away that her virtuosic playing was compromised & this was eventually eventually restored once her blindness returned. All this actually took place but details concerning Paradis' condition its cause, temporary cure, & eventual visual regression are still uncertain to this day. Albert's view regarding Vienna society (as well as Paradis' selfish parents who view her as a meal ticket at the expense of her some helpful treatment, however temporary, from Mesner) is vividly described. In particular the performance of the Romanian actress Maria Dragus holds ones attention & she does not shy away from showing Paradis' sometimes unsympathetic qualities. The German actor Devid Striesow as Mesmer does interesting work as well. An unusual Film & one seen, it seems, by more critics than audiences. Well worth one's attention & Dragus gives the film much of its impact. See more 11/23/2019 Full of symbolism and deep philosophical questions about what it means to see and to be noticed, this film pulls you into a woman's struggle to regain her sight without losing her virtuoso talent. The amazing costumes and sets, acting and writing, direction and lighting will stand out in my mind for a long time to come. This is what cinema should be and hasn't been in America for a very long time. See more Read all reviews

Mademoiselle Paradis

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