Meeting Venus (1991)

"Meeting Venus" is a sumptuous satire, an opera in itself, that twirls amidst the grandeur of the opera world and the intricate dance of a unified Europe. Hungarian maestro Zoltan Szanto (Arestrup), is summoned to Paris to orchestrate a daring new rendition of Richard Wagner's legendary "Tannhäuser". Szanto, however, quickly finds himself enmeshed in a labyrinth of egos and politics. Artistic pride runs rampant, nationalistic sentiments flare, and the undercurrents of company and union politics threaten to undermine the production. As if navigating these treacherous waters weren't enough, Szanto's task is further complicated by precarious funding and unexpected labor strikes, turning his dream into a high-stakes balancing act. But beneath the surface turmoil, a more personal drama unfolds. Szanto finds himself ensnared in a passionate affair with the luminous diva, Karin Anderson, adding another layer of complexity to his already tumultuous endeavor. However, it's this very passion—for Karin, for Wagner, for the opera—that has the potential to bring him redemption. "Meeting Venus" presents a riveting exploration of love, art, and politics, wrapped in the enchanting melody of Wagner's masterpiece. As the curtain rises, viewers are invited to witness the struggle, the beauty, and the transcendent power of opera, echoing long after the final notes have faded.

Meeting Venus is a comedy movie featuring Glenn Close and directed by István Szabó.

Meeting Venus is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Tubi TV.

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