Shining Night

Shining Night is a heartwarming and captivating documentary movie released in 2012 and directed by Michael Stillwater. It envelopes its audience in the world of exquisite choral music while exploring the life and work of one the world's most celebrated contemporary classical composers, Morten Lauridsen.

Morten Lauridsen is known for the deep spiritual resonance of his music. His works have been acknowledged globally, making him one of the most performed living composers. This beautiful film portrays the life and work of Lauridsen, taking us on a journey of musical exploration, filled with themes of creativity, music, and artistic aspiration.

The movie starts with poignant scenes of Waldron Island in the Pacific Northwest, where Lauridsen draws his inspiration for most of his music. The serene nature landscapes act as a metaphor for his compositions, combining with his melodious creations to meet in a crossroads of beauty and harmony that is captivating to the viewer.

Shining Night dives into the essence of Lauridsen's compositions, conveying their emotional depth and connecting audiences to the heart of his music. The documentary provides a unique, in-depth look into how Lauridsen composes his pieces – showcasing his fascinating process, from the initial creation to the final realization of his works.

One key aspect of this film is that it provides an intimate portrait of Lauridsen. While primarily centered on his musical contributions, the film seamlessly weaves in illuminating views into Lauridsen’s personal experience as a composer. It explores his fascinating relationships with mentor Ingolf Dahl at the University of Southern California, his struggle and transcendence of cancer, and his unwavering commitment to teaching.

The movie effectively uses interviews for its storytelling, with one notable conversation being between Dana Gioia, a renowned writer and poet, and Morten Lauridsen. Their insightful exchange not only reveals more about Lauridsen's life and creative process but also delves into deeper topics such as the intricate association between poetry and choral music.

Paul Salamunovich, an authoritative figure in the choral music world, and longtime collaborator with Lauridsen, is another significant presence in the documentary. His relationships with Lauridsen, as both an interpreter of his music and a close friend, offer beautiful insights into Lauridsen’s works. His commentary throughout the movie enhances our understanding of the music, thus providing another dimension to this multifaceted documentary.

Shining Night is more than a straightforward documentary; it is an enlightened depiction of Lauridsen's personal worldview, an exploration of life lived creatively, and an affirmation of music's transformative power. Musical performances are interwoven throughout the movie, providing firsthand experiences of the awe-inspiring music Lauridsen creates. Beautiful renditions of his compositions, such as “O Magnum Mysterium” and “Dirait-on”, are performed, providing richer context to Lauridsen’s narratives.

Stillwater does an excellent job directing this film, blending visuals stunningly with the emotive music and powerfully resonant narrative. The cinematography is a breathtaking blend of natural landscapes and personal portraits, helping the film to go beyond merely enlightening its audience about Lauridsen. It invites us into a deeper contemplation of art, inspiration, and the human condition – what it means to not only create music but also to be profoundly moved by it.

In conclusion, Shining Night is an achievement that beautifully captures the spirit and the essence of Morten Lauridsen, presenting an insightful story that extends beyond the realms of music and into the depths of human nature. The movie captivates its viewers with stunning imagery, gorgeously-crafted compositions, and heartwarming narratives to exemplify art's ability to transcend language and geographical barriers to touch hearts and stir souls. A must-watch for music enthusiasts and those who cherish the human creative spirit.