Massenet: Manon (2007): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2007, Massenet: Manon is a music film directed by Vincent Paterson, running about 200 minutes. “Jules Massenet’s Manon at the Berlin Staatsoper” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Massenet's opera centres on its charming but contrary heroine, the vivacious young Manon who longs for luxury and excitement. We first encounter her en route to a convent, where her family are sending her to be educated. Along the way, she falls in love with the young student Des Grieux, and, impetuously, runs off with him. She soon leaves him, however, to become the mistress of a rich nobleman. Thus begins her descent into criminality and depravity, all too soon dragging the besotted Des Grieux with her, until she is imprisoned. Despite its tragic story, the opera is full of French charm and vitality – typified by the ambiguous Manon herself. Her plight is touching because of the subtle play of innocence and calculation in her character. The score contains many sparkling arias and ensembles, moving rapidly from moods of exuberance to tenderness, with perfect dramatic timing. Recorded live at the Staatsoper Unter den Linden, Berlin, April/May 2007.

Who’s in it. Massenet: Manon stars Anna Netrebko as Manon Lescaut, Rolando Villazón as Des Grieux, Alfredo Daza as Lescaut and Christof Fischesser as Le Comte Des Grieux, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 10.0/10, Massenet: Manon sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Massenet: Manon page.

If you liked it. Fans of Massenet: Manon tend to enjoy Whiplash, Coco, Green Book and The Legend of 1900.