theguardian.com
Concert Review and Hollywood Flops
A review of a concert featuring Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson, followed by reflections on a book about Hollywood flops and the unpredictability of success and recognition.
English
United Kingdom
Us PoliticsEntertainmentLifestyleHistoryMusicFilmAwardsPerformance
Royal Festival HallSouthbank CentreAcademy Awards
Víkingur ÓlafssonBrahmsRobert SchumannRex HarrisonSigvaldi KaldalónsTim RobeyStanley Kubrick
- Who performed at the Royal Festival Hall, and what piece did they play?
- Víkingur Ólafsson gave a fervent performance of Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 1 at the Royal Festival Hall, his playing described as having the energy of a flag in high wind.
- What was the nature of Ólafsson's encore, and what was its significance?
- Ólafsson's encore was a prayer for the world, a version of Ave Maria composed by Sigvaldi Kaldalóns, offering a moment of perspective amidst current global unease.
- What unexpected contrast is highlighted regarding Academy Award winners in consecutive years?
- The author reflects on the contrast between the Academy Awards honoring both Doctor Dolittle's visual effects and 2001: A Space Odyssey's the following year, highlighting the unpredictable nature of artistic recognition.
- What is the subject of Tim Robey's book, and which film is highlighted in a particular chapter?
- Tim Robey's book, "Box Office Poison," details the hilarious history of Hollywood flops, including a chapter dedicated to Rex Harrison's disastrous "Doctor Dolittle," which despite being a critical failure, won two Oscars.
- What were some of the production challenges encountered during the filming of "Doctor Dolittle?"
- Doctor Dolittle's production was plagued by issues; the set had to be hosed down with ammonia due to animal waste, and the promotional cover shoot involved a giraffe that stepped on its own penis.