The Maestro

First off, I’m biased. I’ve worked in the film music business here in LA for twenty years. I know the Golden Age history and already admire many of the artists depicted in this film...so I can Relate! Having said that, this movie pushes beyond its subject matter and gets at the essence of an artist coming to terms with personal creativity vs. commercial requirements. I loved this story and am so glad somebody had the wherewithal to tell it so well. Bravo to The Maestro!

Big fan of Walking Dead and thought I'd take a chance - and I wasn't disappointed, though it was something completely opposite of what we're used to seeing from Xander. Simply put, an amazing film about the pursuits and ambitions of an artist, with a fantastic look and feel. If you've ever had any artistic aspirations or are continuing to pursue yours, either way you'll relate and enjoy this well-produced, directed and acted film.

Saw it twice. It's an inspiring story for anyone who loves music & film, refreshingly told and well acted --especially by Xander Berkeley, who plays thr titular character.

That quote does a great job of summing up this beautiful film. It's not an action-filled box officer smasher, but portrays honest scenes of musical passion, struggle, and real life. Xander Berkeley so delicately balances the quirky personality and uncommon positivity in the exceptionally loveable character of Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. This is the perfect film for a quiet evening in, when you have time to ponder all the amazing (yet understated—another theme in the film) aspects to this little-known but wonderful story.

A very enjoyable film. I loved the music and the characters. Xander Berkeley brings Mario Castelnuovo's character to screen in a viceral and captivating performance. I will be suggesting this film to friends, especially music lovers.

Chances are that you've never heard of The Maestro--Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. I certainly hadn't. But you've no doubt heard and been influenced by his teaching and his music. The Maestro is a slow and steady burn like a warm candle flickering in a darkened room examining the challenges and beauty of art. If you are looking for explosions and fast paced drama, this isn't the film for you. But if you'd like to cozy up by the fire, crack open a good book, and get a glimpse into a life that will keep you contemplating after the credits have rolled, then welcome to The Maestro.

Xander Berkeley gives a standout performance in this delightful, music-filled indie!

I was pleasantly surprised by the quality, tempo, tenor, and ultimate message of this independent film. Italian-Jewish classical music composer Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco fled to America in 1939 only to wind up in Hollywood writing music for the motion pictures. Over the next twenty years he would have many successful students including John Williams (Jaws, Star Wars), Jerry Goldsmith (Star Trek, Man From UNCLE), and Henry Mancini (The Pink Panther). This story, however, is not about how Mario led those men to greatness. Rather it is about Jerry Herst, an intelligent and sensitive fellow who had a number one hit song in the late 1930s but since then has gone dry. Now, in 1945, fresh out of the Navy and full of self-doubt, Jerry looks to invigorate his music career and seeks out Mario's training. But Mario does not coach Jerry to make him play better. Instead Mario encourages his eager student to listen to the music within himself and to find his own voice of expression. In the end, Jerry achieves his goal, secure in his accomplishments and his own self worth. An added plus is the wonderful use of Mario's classical music throughout the film, artfully crafted by director Adam Cushman, allowing the visual imagery to float upon waves of guitar, piano, and orchestral compositions. Not to be missed!