Enrico Caruso Movies

This program tells the story of the man who many feel was the greatest singer who ever performed: Enrico Caruso. The film follows the life of the singing idol, who thrilled both the sophisticated opera enthusiast and the common people with his singular voice and charisma. Despite the technical shortcomings of the recordings from the early days of broadcasting, the magic of Caruso comes through. The biography presents archival photographs, film clips, and personal recollections of family and friends. Interviews with opera stars, such as Luciano Pavarotti and Placido Domingo, offer insight into the genius of the singer, whose untimely death was mourned around the world. ~ Rose of Sharon Winter, All Movie Guide

In a questionable move, Paramount mogul Adolph Zukor signed the great operatic tenor Enrico Caruso to make three silent movies for his studio. But even though Caruso couldn't be heard, he still made an impressive debut in My Cousin. He plays two roles -- a poor sculptor, Mario Nanni and a famous tenor (naturally!), Cesare Carulli. Mario wants to impress his lady love (Caroline White), so he tells her that Carulli is his cousin. He is accused of lying, but Carulli comes to the rescue by pretending to really be Mario's cousin. Caruso does overplay, but it works within the comic context of the film, and the strength of his personality shines through. Incidentally, White, the girl in the film, was yet another opera singer signed to play in silent films. ~ Janiss Garza, All Movie Guide