First, the story of the passionate red violin that gripped many cine goers nine years ago-The movie directed by Montreal born Francios Girard communicates at multiple levels for different genres of people. When the film was made it was a co-production with three companies based in Canada, Italy and UK. The red violin is a story of a violin (but naturally!) and how it has affected different players in 300 years! An unusual theme, the beginning of the film marks the entry of historians and some of its previous owners at the auction. As history unfolds it reveals emotional upheavals of its owners. The violin created in 1681 is under the gavel as bidding starts. The previous owners have had much distress while it has been in their possession. It depicts passion, love, sacrifice, even anger and unfaithfulness of all people that have handled it. The film ends mysteriously for its last owner. The haunting music of the film has been released five years ago as a separate album. Violinists play the music at concerts in some parts of the world.

Legends and myths have always been a part and parcel of history. Combined with art and culture it provides a lethal combination for a moving tale. Just like the famed Kohinoor diamond that has been in possession of British Queen and has many stories revolving around it for more than 200 years, so is the case with the story of ‘The Red Violin’. Apparently the director was inspired by one of the musical instrument owned by Stradivarius. Called the Red Mendelssohn (1720), it is now been played by soloist Elizebeth Pitcairn. During an auction by Christie’s in London Elizebeth’s father became its owner. He had presented it to her on her 16th birthday paying up $ 1.6 million. She plays this violin and has also performed concerts where she has been playing the music of the film of The Red Violin. John Corigliano gave the music of this film. The musical scroe of the film fetched the composer an Oscar too. The film has gained recognition and awards in other catogeries also. Joshua Bell, the solosit performed the music and has released a CD album about five years ago. Francis Girard, the director of this film seems to have some fascination for musical instruments. The 45 years old director began his eventful career with a unique film called, ‘Thirty two short films of Glenn Gloud’. The 1993 film followed the life and times of a piano prodigy called Glenn Gloud. This film catapulted him in the international league. With a musical bent of mind he has also directed stage musicals which include Stravinsky’s Symphony of Pslams’and Oedipus Rex. The red violin has been able to amass an academy award for the Best Original Soundtrack, 13 Jennie awards and 9 Jutra awards.

Since the film spans different countries local artistes have also been used in the film. Some include Carlo Cecchi from Cremona, Joshua Bell from Oxford, Sylvia Chang from China, Samuel Jackson form Montreal. The film has been well received by critics and masses where ever it has been shown. It has a good combination of visual and musical appeal so necessary for any film.