Primadonna or Nothing

Star icon or mere shooting star? The fate of talented opera singers is determined not only by talent and genes, but also by discipline and perseverance. Documentary filmmaker Juliane Sauter explores what goes on behind the scenes of glamour through the lens of three generations.

A documentary about three singers and the dedication and passion demanded of them by the opera world: Valerie Eickhoff is just starting out and is dissatisfied with her position as an understudy. Angel Joy Blue lives the life Valerie dreams of—the American Grammy winner sings on the world's biggest stages. After a 15-year career, she also knows the dark side of fame. Legendary soprano Renata Scotto has completed this journey. In her hometown of Savona, she looks back on a life in the spotlight... An intimate portrait of the dream of reaching for the stars, of struggles, triumphs, and devotion to the art of opera.