The Magic Flute

Tamino, a handsome prince, and Papageno, a bird-catcher, are sent by the Queen of Night to rescue her daughter Pamina from captivity under the high priest Sarastro. Julie Taymor's abridged, English-language production of the classic Mozart opera.

Directed by Julie Taymor, Gary Halvorson, The Magic Flute leans on a strong ensemble — Matthew Polenzani, Ying Huang, Nathan Gunn — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about music titles of 2006.