La Passion de Jeanne d’Arc, (The Passion of Joan of Arc) is Carl Theodore Dreyer’s undisputed masterpiece (1928).  Based on the actual record of Joan of Arc’s trial, this silent film is as mesmerizing as it is eerily modern.  Considered one of the greatest films in history, “The Passion of Joan of Arc” stars the inimitable Renée Jeanne Falconetti as the title character, with supporting roles played by Eugène Silvain, André Berley, and Maurice Schutz. Shot on a colossal concrete set based on medieval architecture, “Joan of Arc” employs a unique approach to cinematography and close-ups, (for instance, actors were not permitted to wear make-up!).

Mark Tipton’s new score explores the pathos of this remarkable film, with a special emphasis placed on embracing and enhancing the impact of Falconetti’s amazing performance – without detracting from it one iota.  Performed live with a screening of the film, as part of the 2019 Maine International Film Festival (MIFF).  Les Sorciers Perdus is: Mark Tipton – trumpet, Danny Fisher-Lochhead – alto sax, Ryan Blotnick – guitar, Tyler Heydolph – bass, Beau Lisy – percussion.

The New York Times film critic Mordaunt Hall wrote an enthusiastic review at the time of the US premiere – here’s an excerpt:

“… as a film work of art this takes precedence over anything that has so far been produced. It makes worthy pictures of the past look like tinsel shams. It fills one with such intense admiration that other pictures appear but trivial in comparison… it is the gifted performance of…Falconetti as the Maid of Orleans that rises above everything in this artistic achievement.”

(The film’s duration is ca. 81min.)