AllMovie

For opera fans who may have missed Gilbert Deflo's lavish production when it premiered at Paris' legendary Bastille in June of 1997, this filmed version of the performance is certainly the next best thing to being there. Conducted by Jesus Lopez-Cobos and featuring the remarkable period costumes of William Orlando, Manon also offers actress Renee Fleming in the role that she has publicly claimed as her personal favorite. Also featuring the talents of Marcelo Alvarez, Jean-Luc Chaignaud, Alain Vernhes, and Michel Sénéchal, this performance is highlighted by the choir and orchestra of l'Opera de Paris.