AllMovie

Never has showbiz seemed like such hard work. In the Shadow of the Stars documents the everyday struggle of members of the San Francisco Opera Chorus. As the voices behind the divas, these players devote their lives to their art. In this behind-the-scenes look, awesome personalities emerge, some fallible, all driven. Love affairs, jealousy, and frustrations are part of the setting. Beyond the drama, the film includes live arias Il Trovatore, 'Africaine, Flying Dutchman, The Rake's Progress, and MacBeth. Winner of the 1991 Oscar for Best Documentary Feature, In the Shadow of the Stars provides a fascinating and real glimpse into the lives of opera singers.