Movie Clip

December 15, 2020, 11:07 PM · I came across this clip of Dudley Moore partaking in a violin duel (and I believe that's Natasha Kinski in the audience) Was Dudley actually playing? I know he was a talented pianist (jazz and classical) as well actor/comedian.

Replies (2)

John Kruer

Edited: December 16, 2020, 1:43 AM · I can say with certainty that the sound you hear has nothing to do with the actors you see. The violin sound was recorded by professionals and the video footage was filmed (likely to the soundtrack) with subtle changes in the speed of playback to sync the movements with the audio. This is how any feature film depicting musicians performing works (if you don't see microphones, the peformers are "lip syncing," if not outright faking).

The taller man has no clue how to play the violin. Moore is the shorter fellow, right? If so, then I think he could play at a fairly good level. He is using the proper fingers in the proper positions with realistic bowing as well. He's definitely not playing in the soundtrack, however - his vibrato is not continuous enough for one. Nevertheless his violin "faking" is leagues ahead of the usual standard in film and TV violin acting.

Steve Jones

December 16, 2020, 2:31 AM · The way Dudley goes up the G-string is remarkably convincing! But yes, the sound is all dubbed

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