Genius Within: The Inner Life of Glenn Gould

Genius Within: The Inner Life of Glenn Gould is a thought-provoking documentary that premiered in 2009. Directed by Michèle Hozer and Peter Raymont, the film stars Glenn Gould himself through historical footage and posthumous narration, as well as Cornelia Foss, his long-time friend and lover.

This documentary is not just for those who love classical music or are staunch fans of Glenn Gould. It crosses various cultural boundaries and ties together multiple threads to delve deep into the life of an eccentric genius who revolutionized the realm of classical music with his innovative interpretations and technical prowess. Known for his seminal interpretations of Johann Sebastian Bach's work, Gould was also an eccentric character with a unique lifestyle and peculiar habits, some of which included wearing an overcoat and gloves all year round, and sitting hunchbacked at a 14-inch-high, battered old chair while playing.

"Genius Within: The Inner Life of Glenn Gould" delivers a comprehensive look at an enigmatic pianist, with a focus on understanding the man behind the myth. It takes a deep dive into his career, personal life, and the eccentricities that marked his life and made him such an intriguing figure. The movie builds an intimate portrait of Gould, going beyond the public persona to explore his fears, desires, and the profound solitude that marked much of his life. Photos, letters, home movies, interviews, and concert footage are interspersed throughout the documentary to give a visually and narratively rich enlightenment of Gould's life.

As Gould himself primarily leads us through his life, the film also provides a platform to those who knew him best to explore the person behind the public image. Long-time friend and romantic partner, Cornelia Foss, provides a significant contribution throughout the documentary. She invites audiences to view a private, reflective side of Gould, revealing his vulnerabilities, intelligence, and charm while also shedding light on his struggles, offering a deeply moving portrait of an icon who lived much of his life in the public eye.

Rather than focusing on Gould's eccentricities, Hozer and Raymont choose to investigate the inherent genius within him. They deftly balance Gould's personal narrative with his musical innovation and contribution, taking care not to detract from his pivotal role in redefining the norms of classical piano practices. The movie masterfully uses various recordings of Gould's performances, providing audiences with a delightful re-exploration of Bach's Goldberg Variations and other integral works through Gould's perspective.

In its cinematographic execution, "Genius Within: The Inner Life of Glenn Gould" is an experience that is as engaging to the eyes as it is to the ears. Apart from the archival footage, the film features interview segments filmed in an elegant black and white, providing a modern, crisp contrast while maintaining the documentary's historical black and white ambiance.

The film does not shy away from addressing the controversy that surrounded Gould. It scrutinizes his avant-garde recording techniques, including overdubbing and splicing, which were often criticized by musical purists at the time. This candid approach adds a layer of necessary realism to his portrayal and counters any risk of posthumous idolization, lending credibility to its intentions and creating a well-rounded narrative.

"Genius Within: The Inner Life of Glenn Gould" is a heartwarming tribute to one of the most fascinating pianists of his generation, and it ensures that audiences, whether they're classical music aficionados or general lovers of a well-told story, will find the life of Glenn Gould deeply touching and utterly entrancing. It paints a portrait of a unique artist who was years ahead of his time, imbuing his legacy with profound respect and delicate sentimentality, while still presenting an honest depiction of a man who was equally loved and misunderstood. By navigating the intriguing dichotomies present in Gould's life, the filmmakers create a documentary that is insightful, deeply human, and ultimately, a testament to the genius within us all.