My first reaction when I heard that there was
going to be a DVD release of Barbra's 1993 concert from Las
Vegas was rather muted. After all, I had seen the previous video
release from Anaheim a countless number of times. "The Concert"
was an awesome event, but what could be so special as to warrant
the release of another version of the same show? Well, the new
DVD of Barbra's return to the concert stage in 1993 is nothing
if not spectacular!
This, being her
big return to public performing, showcases Barbra in perhaps the
best vocal form of her career. Each song, especially during the
first act's therapy segment is a true emotional performance,
something that is not as dramatic in the Anaheim performances.
The inclusion of songs like "I'm In The Mood For Love" and "What
Is This Thing Called Love," along with extended versions of
"I'll Know," "I'm Still Here" and "Everybody Says Don't" make
watching this version of the show a delightfully unique
experience. The Mike Myers Coffee Talk sketch, last seen
as an edited inclusion in CBS's original 1995 broadcast of "The
Concert," is comedy at its finest.
One element of
the production which stands out as exceptional is the editing.
For a performance that was not originally intended for either
television or video release, the result is impeccable. The most
amazing camera and editing effect occurs when Barbra sings the
final bars from "You Don't Bring Me Flowers." Barbra's eyes, big
as life, are superimposed on the screen as the camera moves from
extreme close up to a wide shot, ultimately fading to black.
Another beautiful effect occurs at the end of "Ordinary
Miracles" when Barbra is bathed in a glistening halo of light.
When Barbra sings the Disney medley to her goddaughter, the
camera cuts between Barbra and the little girl a number of
times, adding emotional poignancy to the performance. Even the
camera pans of the celebrities in the audience are done with
such skill, especially when we see Elliott Gould rise up to lead
a standing ovation for his former better half at the conclusion
of "The Way We Were." We also see Gregory Peck enjoying the
performance, which has new meaning in retrospect.
But perhaps the
most emotional moment comes during Barbra's introduction of her
mother. Barbra introduces Mrs. Kind as "my mommy" and tells her
how nice she looks. Mrs. Kind is clearly moved by the moment and
can be seen mouthing the words, "you look nice, too." It's
a moment of love and pride for both women. You'll be hard
pressed not to be moved.
You'll
thoroughly enjoy watching this version of "Barbra The Concert"
no matter how familiar you might be with the show. If you were
in attendance at these particular concerts as I was, it will
open up a floodgate of wonderful, special memories.
Well done,
Barbra.
