The Legend of 1900 (1998)

Detailed Summary

Introduction: The Legend Begins

The film opens with Max Tooney (played by Pruitt Taylor Vince), a former trumpet player, who stumbles upon an old piano in a shop and is instantly reminded of his dear friend, Danny Boodman T.D. Lemon 1900 (played by Tim Roth). Max tells the owner of the piano the story of 1900, a musical genius who was born and lived his entire life on the SS Virginian, a luxury cruise ship.

The Birth of 1900

1900 was found as a baby aboard the ship, abandoned in a lemon crate. He was adopted by Danny Boodman (Bill Nunn), a crew member who gives the boy his unusual name. As he grows up, 1900 displays an extraordinary talent for playing the piano, a skill he develops entirely on his own. Despite being able to mesmerize everyone on board with his music, 1900 remains hidden from the outside world, never setting foot off the ship.

The Duel with Jelly Roll Morton

One of the most memorable and intense sequences in the film is when 1900 challenges Jelly Roll Morton (Clarence Williams III), the legendary jazz musician, to a piano duel. This scene is a dramatic highlight, showing not only 1900’s technical brilliance but his unique ability to capture the soul of music in a way that transcends mere showmanship.

The Love Story That Never Was

1900’s sheltered existence is challenged when he falls in love with a beautiful young woman he sees boarding the ship. Their silent interactions speak volumes, but the love story remains unfulfilled as 1900, despite his feelings, cannot bring himself to leave the ship.

The Final Farewell

As World War II ends, the SS Virginian is decommissioned, and Max learns that the ship is going to be destroyed. Max attempts to find 1900, believing he is still aboard the ship. In a heartbreaking conversation, 1900 reveals that he cannot leave the ship, explaining that he was born on it and can’t live in a world that’s “too big” for him. In a poignant moment, Max is forced to say goodbye to his friend.

Movie Ending

The film ends with the destruction of the SS Virginian. 1900 remains on board as the ship is blown up, choosing to end his life where it began. The final image is haunting: Max, with tears in his eyes, watching the ocean, knowing that 1900’s music and spirit will forever be lost to the world.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

There is no post-credits scene in The Legend of 1900, allowing the film’s emotionally resonant conclusion to stand on its own.

Type of Movie

The Legend of 1900 is a period drama with elements of fantasy and music. It’s a poetic exploration of isolation, the nature of genius, and the existential fears that come with stepping out of one’s comfort zone. The film’s core revolves around its music and the internal world of its protagonist.

Cast

• Tim Roth as 1900
• Pruitt Taylor Vince as Max Tooney
• Bill Nunn as Danny Boodman
• Clarence Williams III as Jelly Roll Morton
• Mélanie Thierry as The Girl
• Peter Vaughan as The Captain

Film Music and Composer

The film’s unforgettable score was composed by the legendary Ennio Morricone. The music plays a crucial role in conveying the film’s emotion and is woven into the narrative itself, as 1900’s entire life is centered around his musical talent. The hauntingly beautiful theme, “Playing Love,” stands out as one of Morricone’s finest pieces.

Filming Locations

• Rome, Lazio, Italy: The film’s interiors, including the ship’s opulent dining halls and piano rooms, were shot at Cinecittà Studios in Rome, bringing to life the grandeur of the early 20th century.
• Malta: The scenes involving the ship itself were filmed on location in Malta, taking advantage of the island’s rich history in maritime cinema.

These locations helped create a magical yet confined atmosphere, echoing 1900’s own world, limited to the boundaries of the ship.

Awards and Nominations

• Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Score (Ennio Morricone)
• David di Donatello Awards: Won for Best Director (Giuseppe Tornatore)
• European Film Awards: Nominated for Best Actor (Tim Roth)

The movie received significant critical acclaim, especially for its musical score and Roth’s performance.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Tim Roth learned the basics of piano playing to bring authenticity to his role, though the more complex pieces were performed by professional pianists.
• The film was adapted from a monologue, Novecento, written by Alessandro Baricco. Baricco worked closely with Tornatore to adapt his stage play into a screenplay.
• The grand piano duel scene was particularly challenging to film due to the intricate camera work required to match the music with the action.

Inspirations and References

The film is based on the monologue “Novecento” by Alessandro Baricco. The stage play reflects on the clash between individuality and the outside world. These themes are deeply embedded in the film’s narrative. While staying true to the play’s spirit, the film expands the story. It especially enhances the visual representation of life on the ship in the 1900s.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There are no widely known alternate endings for The Legend of 1900, though some scenes exploring the friendship between Max and 1900 in greater detail were cut for pacing reasons. These scenes emphasized 1900’s deep, yet quiet longing to connect with others, especially through music.

Book Adaptations and Differences

The film version of The Legend of 1900 stays true to Alessandro Baricco’s play but adds more elaborate visual and musical depth. In the monologue, the philosophical elements are more pronounced. 1900’s isolation and fear of the outside world are explored more through dialogue.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• The piano duel between 1900 and Jelly Roll Morton, a showcase of genius versus bravado.
• The moment when 1900 sees the girl for the first time and plays a tender piece just for her.
• Max’s final conversation with 1900, where 1900 explains why he cannot leave the ship.

Iconic Quotes

• 1900: “Land? Land is a ship too big for me.”
• Max: “You’re never really done for as long as you’ve got a good story and someone to tell it to.”
• 1900: “The keyboard is finite, but the music is infinite.”

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film contains several references to great musicians of the early 20th century, especially in the character of Jelly Roll Morton, a real jazz musician.
• The name “1900” reflects both the time period in which the film is set and symbolizes a man caught between two centuries.

Trivia

• The film was shot mostly in English, though it is an Italian production.
• Ennio Morricone’s score was nominated for a Golden Globe, adding another entry to his long list of achievements.
• Tim Roth reportedly felt very attached to the character of 1900, describing the role as one of his most emotionally challenging performances.

Why Watch?

The Legend of 1900 is a must-watch for music lovers and anyone who appreciates stories about art, isolation, and the human condition. The emotional depth, combined with stunning cinematography and one of Morricone’s finest scores, makes it a film that lingers long after it ends. If you enjoy introspective, character-driven films with a unique setting, this one’s for you.

Director’s Other Movies

• Cinema Paradiso (1988)
• Malena (2000)
• The Best Offer (2013)
• Baarìa (2009)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Amadeus (1984)
• Shine (1996)
• The Pianist (2002)
• Cinema Paradiso (1988)