Gonzales Non Stop

A 60 minutes documentary coproduced by Gentle Threat, in partnership with France Televisions

Midnight, May 16 2009: Will piano virtuoso Gonzales manage to break the world’s record for the longest solo performance, held by Indian pianist Prasanna Gudi who played continuously for 26 hours and 12 minutes?

This documentary follows the “performance” of Canadian pianist Gonzales in real time, thereby discovering the irreverent, playful and off-the-wall humor of this consummate showman.

From classical music to pop, from jazz to personal improvisations, Gonzales’ inspiration is an unrelenting experience!

Interventions by artist friends of Gonzales serve as counterpoints to the film’s chronology: the poetic apparition of French actress Arielle Dombasle, or the barber who comes to shave the pianist during his performance…

Occasional scenes between reality and fantasy also offer possible clues: illustrations of Gonzales’ alleged physical and mental preparation with his personal coach, his producer and… a sleep specialist.

This odd mix of visual effects mirrors the strange world of Gonzales, making for a boisterous and whimsical musical cocktail. A cocktail served by a fantastic and multi-talented artist, to a rapt audience.