Although there have been numerous operatic and non-operatic versions of the Salome story, the Goetz Friedrich film of Richard Strauss' Salome is a total triumph. Indeed it should easily be on every opera lovers top ten list of operatic film productions. Teresa Stratas, known for her fine acting on stage, is unsurpassable in he lead role. She is remarkable in her transition from teen-like petulance to adult lust. Her performance of the Dance of the Seven Veils is far more erotic than other Salome's who use nudity for shock value. The artistic and musical direction are definitive and Stratas is surrounded by an equally talented cast. Note how each character comments (rhapsodizes) at some point about the Moon and how Astrid Varnay as Salome's Mother Herodias' puts everything in perspective with "Der Mond is der Mond und das is alles!...The moon is the moon and nothing more! A must buy for opera lovers!!!!
