Venice Film Festival 2023: who was Leonard Bernstein, as Bradley Cooper takes on the role in ‘Maestro’?

Could another musical feature film see Bradley Cooper earn more awards? The “A Star Is Born” actor once again splits his time in front and behind the camera with “Maestro,” set to have its premiere at this year’s Venice International Film Festival, which draws ever closer to its opening night taking place on August 30 2023. 

With “Maestro” though, rather than a work of fiction, Cooper has instead been tasked with bringing to life the world of acclaimed composer and songwriter Leonard Bernstein, considered one of the Unites State’s cultural icons through both his compositions and also his life as a prodigy. Cooper wasn’t the first director though to be approached to helm the biopic and originally was only slated to star in it.

The production was originally going to be directed by a hallowed director who had experience with concert films and musical documentaries in the past, Martin Scorsese, however, he dropped out in order to work on his Netflix epic, “The Irishman.” Cooper has also revealed that another hallowed director in cinematic history was slated to direct the piece after his casting - Steven Spielberg.

Though it was a screening of Cooper’s “A Star Is Born” that made Spielberg decide ultimately to become a producer for the film, alongside Scorsese and Cooper, and instead decided to let the actor himself direct the biopic - so no pressure on Cooper at all here.

But for some who might not be savvy with US pop culture, or a little too young to be familiar with Leonard Bernstein, PeopleWorld takes a brief look at who the songwriter was, who is in the cast for the film and most importantly it’s screenings times at Venice Film Festival and it’s general theatrical release.

Who was Leonard Bernstein?

Born on August 25, 1918, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, Leonard Bernstein displayed a prodigious musical talent from an early age, entering Harvard University at just 16 and graduating in 1939. His career skyrocketed when he filled in as conductor for ailing Bruno Walter at the New York Philharmonic in 1943, making him an overnight sensation.

Bernstein's dynamic conducting style, characterized by his intense passion and expressive gestures, earned him global recognition. He became the first American-born conductor to lead the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra in 1966, showcasing his exceptional command of both classical and contemporary repertoire. 

His role as a music educator was equally impactful; his televised Young People's Concerts with the New York Philharmonic brought classical music to countless homes, demystifying it for a new generation.

As a composer, Bernstein's legacy is immortalized through works such as "West Side Story," a modern retelling of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" that integrated jazz and classical elements. The piece remains an iconic contribution to both musical theatre and American culture. Additionally, his compositions, including symphonies and choral works, encompassed a unique fusion of traditional and innovative techniques.

Leonard Bernstein's death on October 14, 1990, marked the end of an era in music. His impact as a conductor, composer, educator, and advocate for social change continues to reverberate through the ages. His profound ability to bridge the gap between classical and popular music, coupled with his commitment to sharing the transformative power of music with all, cemented his status as one of the 20th century's most influential figures in the world of art and culture.

Who is starring in “Maestro”?

While Bradley Cooper takes the main role of Leonard Bernstein and also directs the work, IMDB has included the following cast members who will be seen in “Maestro”:

• Bradley Cooper as Leonard Bernstein
• Carey Mulligan as Felicia Montealegre
• Matt Bomer
• Maya Hawke as Jamie Bernstein
• Sarah Silverman as Shirley Bernstein
• Michael Urie as Jerome Robbins
• Gideon Glick as Tommy Cothran
• Sam Nivola as Alexander Bernstein
• Miriam Shor as Cynthia O'Neal
• Alexa Swinton as Nina Bernstein

When is “Maestro” playing at the 80th Venice International Film Festival?

Screenings of “Maestro” open to the general public will occur on September 2 2023, with a 7pm screening at Sala Grande and 7:30pm at the PalaBiennale.

Pass holders can also see the film on September 2 2023, but at 8:30am at the Sala Darsena, 11:15am at the Sala Grande and then on September 3 2023 at 10:30am at the PalaBiennale. 

When will “Maestro” get a general theatrical release?

“Maestro” is scheduled for limited theatrical release on November 22 2023 before streaming on Netflix on December 20 2023.