Films by Andreas Morell

Germany 2020, 52 min
by Andreas Morell

Maria Callas and Renata Tebaldi were the two most celebrated artists of the second half of the last century. Made into hostile enemies by their admirers, the two became untouchable goddesses of the opera.How serious was the rivalry of the two divas in reality, and how much have the rivalry – and in the end also the scandals of Maria Callas – affected her fame and Renata Tebaldi's oblivion?We have travelled to the opera houses in New York and Milan to search for clues, have spoken with companions, friends and opera experts, and – of course – have listened to the two unparalleled voices. The result is a fascinating journey through the world of opera and song.

2019, 52 min
by Andreas Morell

Carlo Gesualdo – beastly murderer and divine composer – is one of the most striking figures in the history of music. Based on his dramatic honor killing, the film tells the story of multi-facetted, revolutionary music and the search for forgiveness.Gesualdo, 47, is the Prince of Venosa, a musical genius and insomniac. Every night he lies awake, haunted by the gruesome act he committed on the 16th of October 1590. Developing from this opening sequence, the documentary tells the story of this extraordinary character, well-illustrated through visits to the original settings in Naples and the village of Gesualdo, as well as enacted scenes.Through the power of music, the film explores the thin line between fascination and disgust. How is it possible to commit a capital crime, yet write divine music? Are crime and genius interwoven? And can salvation through music be achieved?