Analyzing a work of genius has never been an effortless task; understanding it–however–always takes a little bit out of one’s soul replaces it far more nourishment than one realizes. Some may find understanding and further–hearing the "Symphony of Silence" a bit arduous; for–to admit to its reality–one must also admit to the futility of words and their sounds. With his latest film–"Symphony of Silence," Vigen Chaldranyan induces us to stop and hear the amazing silence–which is created by real love–by hope–by faith–comprehension of truth and the unrecognizable innocence in us all.
The premier American screening of "Symphony of Silence" was held in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences–Samuel Goldwyn Theater–on October 12–2001. The film and three of its contributors were introduced by the director’s daughter–Aida Chaldranyan–before the commencement of the film. One of the co-stars–Jean Pierre Nshanian–the Composer–Gary Kesayan and the Art Director/Advertising Designer of "Symphony of Silence," Sahak Ekhshian spoke on behalf of themselves and fellow participants in the creation process of the film. Sylvia Minassian–the Founder and Chairperson of AFFMA–(Arpa Foundation for Film Music and Arts,) and promoter of the event Vigen Chaldranyan as the possessor of talent equivalent to that of such men as Fellini–Capra and Bergman. Mr. Chaldranyan–after thanking all those to whom gratitude was due–and stating that the Motion Picture Selection Committee of Armenia has presented the film to be considered for an Academy Award–presented "Symphony of Silence."
As the lights were dimmed–and silence encompassed the theater–the screen lighted up and the celestial music composed by Gary Kesayan probed the ears of the audience. As the film began and as it ended–it seemed as though not a single viewer dared or was able to breath.
When exiting the auditorium–some faces were being wiped of tears–some were smiling–and others seemed to be pondering; all unmistakable signs that the evening had been a success! The audience’s reaction to the film was sensational–as best as one can ever hope for; as one viewer present stated–"I have no opinion yet; I must first be able to digest all of it." This was a film in its own category in the Armenian cultural archives–as well as in the US
Chaldranyan posed five essential–door-opening questions that he wished his film would not only ask–but present answers to: "Who are we–where do we come from–what do we receive from this world–what do we give in return–and –finally–what is our purpose on this earth?" The answers to these questions and several more were revealed this new–incredible work of art.
The Alex Theater will present "Symphony of Silence" for one night only–November 6 at 8:00 p.m.–due to the overwhelming demand from the Southern California Armenian community. Chaldranyan is going to present his portfolio to the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences for Academy Award consideration on November 1–and on the 15th he will have a private screening of his film to the Academy.