As a professional classical musician, the film gets a lot of details right. Some of the conducting was over exaggerated but probably wouldn’t be to the typical movie goer.

Great movie. Way too long.

Intriguing character study

The story line was described as a roller coaster, but it truly needed some evening out. The beginning is pedantic with Blanchett doing near monologues on classical music. Then little by little you are introduced to her sadistic tendencies and the brilliant Nina Hoss who uses “transactional” to encapsulate Lydia’s actions. Fabulous acting and amazing character sketches across the board until you are on the bumpy ride through the relatively incoherent last 20 minutes of the film. Cate Blanchett for best actress. Is there anyone else who can hold the screen like this except Isabelle Huppert?