The story of a world-class violinist who contracts multiple sclerosis and is forced to abandon her career, as long as Duet for One [from the 1980 stage play by Tom Kempinski] stays personal and specific it is a moving portrait of a life in turmoil.
Initially the film is not really about illness but the relationship of an artist to her art. Film is full of lovely musical interludes, both in concert and practice, and Julie Andrews actually looks credible stroking her violin. At the same time Andrews approaches her predicament in a pragmatic, overly rational manner as she plans out her recording schedule and the remaining days of her career.
In addition to the suggestion of a story, first half of the film offers an array of eccentric characters swirling around Andrews’ life. As the philandering husband, Bates is a complex and restless soul afraid to face his own failings, whose vulnerability and physical deterioration bring an added and welcome dimension to the film.
