Thirty Two Short Films About Glenn Gould (1993)

Synopsis of Thirty Two Short Films About Glenn Gould

The highly acclaimed and famously eccentric classical pianist Glenn Gould is the subject of this idiosyncratic film portrait. As the title suggests, Gould's life is explored through a series of thirty-two self-contained but interrelated vignettes, a structure inspired by Bach's "Goldberg Variations," the compositions that were the basis for one of Gould's most famous recordings. Fictional recreations, many starring an excellent Colm Feore as Gould, follow the musician from his precocious childhood to his early death at the age of fifty. Juicy biographical details like a surprising early retirement from public performance and an addiction to prescription drugs are featured prominently, but equal attention is paid to Gould's challenging theoretical ideas. Director Francois Girard refuses to provide easy explanations for the pianist's quirks, instead using his unconventional structure to provide great insight while suggesting the real Gould remains essentially unknowable. Especially interesting is the film's mix of dramatization and documentary, as it juxtaposes its fictional recreations with actual interviews with Gould's friends and associates. ~ Judd Blaise, Rovi

Director(s):

François Girard

Writer(s):

Nick McKinney, François Girard, Don McKellar

Producer(s):

Michael Allder, Amy J. Kaufman, Niv Fichman

Theatrical MPAA Rating:

NR(Questionable for Children, Adult Language, Adult Situations, Drug Content)

• 1993 - Genie Awards - Best Editing
• 1993 - Genie Awards - Best Director
• 1993 - Genie Awards - Best Cinematography
• 1993 - Genie Awards - Best Picture
• 1993 - São Paulo International Film Festival - Jury Prize

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