Death in Venice

A HOT SUMMER'S DAY - THEN THE EPIDEMIC Gustav Aschenbach is a German composer and conductor on a pleasure trip to Venice. He idly observes the other guests in the hotel, especially Tadzio, a handsome boy of 14. Aschenbach reflects upon his past life. The air is heavy and oppressive, and though he wants to leave Venice he finds himself becoming infatuated with Tadzio. There is suddenly hushed talk of an epidemic. The authorites deny the rumours but an English travel agency clerk confirms the fears. The Venetians realise the gravity of the situation but the crucial importance of tourist income induceds efforts to keep the epidemic hidden. Aschenbach decides to stay, and searches for Tadizo. . . . . . © Alfa Cinematografica S.r.l and Warner Bros, Inc.