The works for organ by J.S. Bach form the bedrock of the organ’s extensive repertoire. Therefore it is fitting to present this new print of a film about this pillar of Western art music during ORGANIX 06. In its rigour, beauty, and originality, this film was immediately recognized as a masterpiece upon its appearance. Chronicle is an austere account of Johann Sebastien Bach’s life as told by his second wife. The emphasis is on Bach’s music, and the film contains many performances of his compositions, all played on period instruments. The film’s transparency masks an astounding complexity. Its various elements are married so perfectly that it is at first difficult to appreciate Straub’s achievement. It demonstrates how, without resort to gimmick, by returning to the basic cinematic modes of expression, through complete devotion to the cinema, the genius of a director can conceive and carry out a perfect film. (Rosalind Delmar, Monthly Film Bulletin). This program is presented by Cinematheque Ontario (www.bell.ca/cinematheque) which is a division of the Toronto International Film Festival. Please note that latecomers will be seated only at the discretion of theatre staff and that there is no admittance ten minutes after the start of the program.