The Magic Flute

    (Eclipse, 1990)
™ and ©1990 P. Craig Russell

The Magic Flute is the first installment of NBM’s “The P. Craig Russell Library of Opera Adaptations.” What is not apparent is that this work was previously released by Eclipse.

Readers who enjoyed Russell’s adaptation of Wagner’s Ring of the Nibelung would be well-advised to investigate this hardcover and subsequent volumes in the series. The Magic Flute does differ from the Ring adaptations in several ways. First, as a much earlier work, it is somewhat less sophisticated. The storyline is less epic, and Russell’s art, while beautiful, has less grandeur. An additional flaw is that the plot relies heavily on the magical flute and bells. Sound does not typically make the best transition to the printed page. In much the same way that Tyroc was not the most interesting Legionnaire, nor Klaw the most engaging villain, these musical elements are limited. To his credit, Russell pulls it off as well as anyone could.

While a little disappointing in these regards, that is probably because we have come to expect so much from Russell. It’s obvious that this volume belongs on the shelf of any Russell fan, as well as the shelves of opera enthusiasts. It’s also recommended for those curious about Mozart’s acclaimed work but more inclined to read a comic book than attend an opera performance.

— Jack Abramowitz
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#1


Cover Price: $4.95
2 copies available from $4.95 		Patrick C. Mason, Wolfgang Amadeus MozartP. Craig Russell
#2


Cover Price: $4.95
1 copy available for $7.00 		Patrick C. Mason, Wolfgang Amadeus MozartP. Craig Russell
#3

January, 1990
Cover Price: $4.95
4 copies available from $6.00 		Patrick C. Mason, Wolfgang Amadeus MozartP. Craig Russell