Mario Lanza: The Best of Everything

Mario Lanza: The Best of Everything is a 2017 biographical documentary film that takes an in-depth and intimate exploration into the life and career of one of America’s most beloved tenors, Mario Lanza. Starring Mario Lanza himself, through archival footage and interviews, and featuring appearances by classical crossover artist Russell Watson and soprano Lesley Garrett, this film is a heartfelt testament to the timeless pull of Mario’s life and legacy.

The film starts with the early years of Mario Lanza, born as Alfredo Arnold Cocozza in Philadelphia to Italian immigrant parents. We discover the roots of Mario's passion for music, guided by his mother who herself was passionate about opera. This beautifully weaved narrative showcases Mario's meteoric rise from the son of Italian immigrants to becoming one of the most famous operatic tenors in the world. The film intelligently uses authentic footage from Lanza’s early life and career, showcasing his natural talent which was quickly acknowledged by both crowds and critics alike.

From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of stardom, this film demonstrates how Lanza became not just a pioneering crossover artist who brought opera to the mainstream but also a Hollywood star. The audience is treated to snippets of Lanzo's memorable performances in films like "That Midnight Kiss," "The Toast of New Orleans," and "The Great Caruso," which brought him fame on an international level.

Mario Lanza: The Best of Everything does not shy away from the tenor's personal struggles. It sheds light on the man behind the fame -- his struggles with substance abuse, his volatile relationships, and the health troubles that led to his untimely demise at the young age of 38. This honestly presented tale contains raw emotions and provides a deep awareness of the remarkable highs and profound lows in Mario's life.

Russell Watson and Lesley Garrett add their own personal touch to the film. As successful and accomplished singers themselves, they provide insightful commentary on the impact and influence of Lanza in the world of music and beyond. Through them, audiences gain a new appreciation of Lanza's powerful tenor voice and unique talent, cementing his role as a trailblazer in the classical music scene. Watson and Garrett express their admiration and respect for Lanza, crediting him as a source of inspiration in their own careers.

The documentary includes a selection of Lanza's greatest hits, which have been wonderfully restored. The songs highlight Lanza's extensive vocal range, emotional depth, and pure raw talent. From "Be My Love" to "The Loveliest Night of the Year," these iconic tunes resonate with both older fans and new listeners, going beyond language and culture barriers, and evoking universal human emotions.

In addition to celebrating Lanza's masterpieces, the movie also explores the ins and outs of the music industry of the era, offering viewers a taste of the glitz, glamour, and unrelenting demands of fame. The film ponders whether these pressures contributed to Lanza's challenges and self-destructive behavior, opening a valuable conversation about the toll of fame on artists.

Mario Lanza: The Best of Everything culminates as a deeply moving homage to one of the world's greatest tenors. The film explores not just Lanza's music and legacy but also the complex man hidden beneath the bright spotlight of fame. It is a must-watch for any music enthusiast and anyone interested in the human condition. Intertwining fact with emotional narrative, this 2017 film brings life, soul and story to unforgettable music, achieving a stirring tribute to Mario Lanza — a man who gave his best to everything.