Arthur Rubinstein: The Love of Life (1969)

So many documentaries that follow celebrated classical maestros end up delivering dry and adulatory fly-on-the-wall observations of their often aloof and pampered subject, but this one is really different. That’s because Arthur Rubenstein comes across as quite an engaging fellow to get to know. Aside from being an accomplished pianist, he also has a demonstrable sense of humour and he also has things to say about politics, history, music and importantly he acknowledges that “you are born with talent and develop it, you can’t learn it”. His travels are extensive and his performances include rehearsals, galas and sessions with aspiring musicians that appear motivational and collaborative. He comes across as a man of integrity and skill, but also one of humility and with a sense of proportion. Annoyingly, what this man also has is a broader communication “gene”. His abilities with the keyboard are mirrored by his multi-lingual abilities and his charm. As a piece of cinema it does dart about a bit, and some of the “faux” spontaneity is just a bit too convenient (and obvious) at times, but generally this rolls along well enough for ninety minutes with enough (though never quite enough) of his music showing off a profound ability to bring Mozart, Beethoven et al back to life.