Film as finely tuned and passionate as the most superb violin.

Rating: 10/10 (2 April 2000)

I was moved and fascinated by this film. Its uniquely crafted story and the use of dual flashback/flashforward sequences make it without peer. But despite the splendid locations, acting, photography and story, it was the playing of Joshua Bell which lifted this movie to incredible heights. The "Red Violin" is supposed to (in the story) be unique in all the world. Whatever actual instrument Bell used, he made it sound as though the notes could have come from this violin and this violin only.

The resemblance of the violin's sound to the human voice and Bell's inspiring playing truly made the instrument itself a character in the film.