Zorn III (2018–2022)

John Zorn Volume 3 is the (for now) final, recently complete chapter in Mathieu Amalric’s longitudinal documentary about the artistic work of the restless composer and improvisor from New York City on stage and backstage. Following ZORN I (2010–2016) and ZORN II (2016–2018), Amalric once again uses the most simple of equipment to get as close as possible in order to grapple with the dynamic forces released when John Zorn meets the world. The focus here is on Zorn’s composition “Jumalattaret”, which he wrote for pianist Stephen Gosling and soprano Barbara Hannigan and which was inspired by Finnish heathen goddesses. The film shows the two of them working on the incredibly difficult piece – the parts are such that even an exceptional musician such as Barbara Hannigan reaches her limits at times – before ending with a breathtaking performance and a single sentence: it was scary but worthy. (bik)