Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation of Mozart’s 1791 opera, which is set in a 20th century war scene is fresh, fun, and uplifting. The film uses some talented opera singers, such as Joseph Kaiser, who’s remarkable and sympathetic as the leading man Tamino, and Amy Carson as his beautiful love Pamina. The actors have mutual attraction, that is very natural and convincing. Rene Pape makes a charming character from evil Sarastro, and the Queen of the Night is stunning with her beautiful voice.

The plot is simple, but the movie is mostly enjoyable, the singers look good and perform well, and the music, of course glorious.

The movie involves an amazing maze of computer animated fantasies and flashbacks. There are plenty of in-screen effects and whimsical scenes. It may easily be said, that Kenneth Branagh’s The Magic Flute is not worse then the famous Ingmar Bergman’s version.