Director Michael Radford, Creator of Acclaimed Documentaries

This year marks 50 years since the birth of Michel Petrucciani, who, despite his congenital osteogenesis imperfecta, was voracious in his desire to live life to the fullest. "Pianism" delves into his music and life. Petrucciani loved wine, travel, and was beloved by women. Born with a condition that suggested a lifespan of only about 20 years, his one-meter stature was gifted by heaven with two remarkable things: extraordinary musical talent and a charismatic personality that endeared him to everyone.




The film features not only invaluable footage of Michel Petrucciani performing and living his life from childhood until shortly before his death, but also interviews with numerous renowned musicians, producers, and the women he loved, who share surprising anecdotes. This unique documentary was helmed by director Michael Radford, whose "Il Postino" garnered numerous international film awards. With his proven skill in crafting quality documentaries, he approaches the genius pianist who lived a short life with a distinctive perspective.

What Heaven Gave and Didn't Give the "Incarnation of the Piano"

Born in 1962 into a musical family in France, Michel Petrucciani spent his childhood immersed in records. At the age of four, inspired by Duke Ellington on television, he decided to become a pianist. He honed his improvisational skills, made his debut at eight, turned professional at thirteen, and moved to the United States at eighteen. He became the first European to sign with the prestigious Blue Note Records, rising to international acclaim.

Despite his global fame, the genius was a boisterous, confident, hedonistic, and humorous man, yet he was constantly entangled in romantic affairs. Unable to bear loneliness and always seeking change, he repeatedly betrayed women, leading to multiple marriages and divorces. In late 1998, after performing over 200 concerts in a year, he contracted pneumonia while on tour, his life's flame burning intensely until the end. He passed away at the young age of 36 just after the new year. However, his music and his spirit continue to live on in the hearts of many.

The "incarnation of the piano" played notes filled with the delicate depth, joy, and humor of life. What did heaven give him, and what did it withhold? We invite you to experience the short yet dramatic life and music of Michel Petrucciani, the genius jazz pianist beloved by music and women, on the big screen.