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Poster for Carmen

1984 | 152 min | Music, Drama

Saturday Specialearly rating

Why it’s a Saturday Special

It earned strong reviews (88% on Rotten Tomatoes), despite almost no lasting buzz. A strong pick for the weekend.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
A natural pick for people who'll be humming afterwards and music lovers. The music is woven into the story, not just laid on top. A good follow-up to Tommy or High Society.
The mood
Thoughtful and character-driven.
The pace
Long and immersive, at 2 hr 32 min.
What might put you off
  • It's long: 2 hr 32 min.
  • It's in French, so expect subtitles (or a dub).
  • Not the one if you want explosions or easy laughs.

In the early 19th century, in Seville and the surrounding area, Carmen seduces the sergeant Don José, who deserts the army to be with her. But the beautiful gypsy falls in love with the bullfighter Escamillo, much to Don José’s despair.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsStrong

    88% on Rotten Tomatoes

  • AudiencesNot counted

    Not measured yet: not enough ratings

  • AwardsSolid

    Nominated for 1 Golden Globe and 2 BAFTAs.

  • Reach & staying powerBelow par

    Streaming release that reached a small audience so far; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactWeak

    About 9K people sought it out in the past year

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Cast & crew

Directed by Francesco Rosi

  • Julia MigenesCarmen
  • Plácido DomingoDon José
  • Ruggero RaimondiEscamillo
  • Faith EshamMicaëla
  • Lillian WatsonFrasquita
  • Susan DanielMercédès
  • John-Paul BogartZuniga
  • Jean-Philippe LafontLe Dancaïre
  • Gérard GarinoLe Remendado
  • François Le RouxMoralès