Jules Barbier

This a film version of the opera "The Tales of Hoffmann", however it is NOT just a film of a staged performance... (imdb)

The philosopher Faust is profoundly depressed by his inaptitude to reach fulfillment through knowledge and thinks of committing suicide. He damns happiness, science and faith and calls on Satan to guide him. Méphistophélès agrees to fulfill the wishes of the philosopher, in exchange for his services in the infernal regions. Faust signs then the document and is transformed into a noble young person.

Darcey Bussell and Roberto Bolle star in Frederick Ashtons Sylvia, restored to the splendour of its elegant and opulent three-act form for the 75th anniversary celebrations of The Royal Ballet.

"Hoffmann's Tales" - The story of the poet Hoffmann, who falls in love with a mechanical doll, loses his mirror image in Venice and finally liberates his lover from the clutches of a sinister doctor. (imdb)