Mstislav Rostropovich, the indomitable bow

Bruno Monsaingeon’s remarkable film gathers rare archives and new testimonies from his daughters, Olga and Elena Rostropovich, and his friends.

In 2000, legendary cellist Mstislav Rostropovich handed a suitcase filled with film material to acclaimed documentary filmmaker Bruno Monsaingeon. Drawing on these treasures, The Indomitable Bow is a unique portrait of the real, authentic Rostropovich, a formidable personality and darling of the media and royalty, as well as a complex and deeply political musician constantly engaged in a whirlwind of activities. Including unreleased and archive films of interviews and concert performances from this key figure of the 20th century, The Indomitable Bow is a remarkable testimony of the legendary Slava’s influential life and work.

English title MSTISLAV ROSTROPOVICH, the indomitable bow
Original title MSTISLAV ROSTROPOVITCH, l’Archet indomptable
Production Company IDEALE AUDIENCE – Pierre-Olivier Bardet & Pierre-Martin Juban
Co-Producer ARTE France, Pathé Production
Director Bruno Monsaingeon
Genre Documentary
Production year 2017
Duration 78 min.
Video format HD