Paul Dessau
The film’s subtitle identifies it as a “study of the constructive discontent of a composer”. It is a portrait of the pugnacious musician Paul Dessau (1894 – 1979), who was controversial in East Germany, as a teacher. It follows the composer as he rehearses the “Bach Variations” with the Berlin state opera orchestra, as well during classes at the Polytechnic School I in Zeuthen, where he strives to teach the students a critical attitude. In an interview, Dessau bemoans the simplification of artistic media and elucidates the meaning and necessity of “hard sounds in an era that is not soft”. As we see when he works, “pleasure requires effort” … “art is never comfortable. Building socialism is not comfortable at all. That’s why I’m in favour of the uncomfortable”.
- Status
- Released
- Budget
- —
- Box office
- —
- Language
- German
Top billed cast
Behind the camera
Videos
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Release dates
GermanyDE
- Theatrical10 Aug 1967
Frequently asked questions
Paul Dessau was released on 10 August 1967.
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