Seymour: An Introduction

Seymour: An Introduction is a unique, thoughtfully created documentary from 2014, starring acclaimed concert pianist Seymour Bernstein, actor Ethan Hawke, and animation artist Sam Bachelder. An intimate and tender portrait of an exceptional man and his exceptional artistry, the film transcends usual dimensions of a documentary, becoming a touching engagement with life, music, and the human spirit.

Hosted by Academy Award nominee Ethan Hawke, the film embarks on a purely inspirational journey, commencing an emotional dialogue between an actor and a pianist about the essence of art and life. The movie takes us on a wholesome journey into the life of Seymour Bernstein, an 85-year old retired pianist who had given up a successful international music career to focus on teaching music. Embodied with the genuine humbleness of an artist, Bernstein reverberates with unceasing wisdom and shares an abundance of life experiences that align perfectly with his piano keys.

In its narrative tone, this is much more than a biographical piece. The movie delves deeply into Seymour's reflections about his life and the astounding power of music. He reiterates the affirming force of music and its remarkable ability to harmonize life and aesthetic perfection. Seymour’s passionate views, honest expressions, underlying humility, and undying love for his craft relatably manifest throughout the film, thereby creating a compelling canvas for viewers.

Seymour: An Introduction vividly shines light on music as a powerfully transformative force. The film is a fascinating discourse about the capacity of music in evoking profound emotions, rendering kaleidoscopic memories, and serving a fundamental human means of expression. It explores how Seymour's musical journey has shaped his life experiences and has helped him self actualize - a lesson he has passionately conveyed to his piano students over decades.

Moving between intimate conversations and poignant footages, the cinematography of the movie presents a profound experience of Seymour's world. Actor-director Ethan Hawke astutely controls the narrative, alternating between life's philosophies and Seymour’s autobiographical tidbits to ensure the film maintains a steady sense of rhythm. Hawke also shares his personal reflections and connections with music and performance, providing an additional layer of depth to the narrative.

Aside from Seymour’s philosophical insights about music and life, the documentary also presents glimpses into his rigorous and meticulous teaching approach. It offers backstage access to Seymour's masterclasses, providing viewers a peek into the synergy between him and his students. The contrast between the technical meticulousness of these sessions and the exalted performance sequences create a complementary dynamic – highlighting the diligence and grind that power each artistic output.

While Seymour Bernstein is the protagonist of the documentary, the silent co-star of the movie is undoubtedly the piano itself. Resembling Seymour's second voice, the piano, through its notes, communicates the unsaid, translating the artist's emotions into music. The documentary is punctuated with Seymour’s piano performances, which evoke an array of emotions, from serenity to intensity, thus manifesting his artistic philosophy.

A pertinent aspect of the movie that stands out is its quintessential rawness and simplicity. There are no overly dramatized elements, nor visually extravagant scenes. Crafted as an homage to a mentor by his learner, the movie is exceptionally personal, chaste and realistic.

While the film is an impeccable representation of Bernstein's life and philosophy, it is also an exploration of the artistic journey and human life. It raises fundamental questions about age, art and its inescapable link to everyday existence. We are shown how art and life, like two parallel lines in geometry, vibrate in symphony, and mirror each other.

In summary, Seymour: An Introduction is a poignant, passionate, and profound documentary, wrapped up in the form of a heartfelt homage. As the movie unfolds, it transports viewers, not only into the extraordinary life and mind of Seymour Bernstein but also into a contemplative space echoing with the profound rhythm of existence, art, and intrinsic beauty. Perfect for ardent music admirers, those intrigued by the life philosophy of artists, or anyone who appreciates delicate narratives, this film is sure to make the audience pause, think and perhaps, reimagine life through the prism of music and art.