Woody Allen, the Opera Fan

Woody Allen is making his opera directorial debut with “Gianni Schicchi,” the concluding chapter of Puccini’s trilogy “Il Trittico,” on Sept. 6, 2008 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The bespectacled director has been characteristically modest about his foray into opera, telling reporters, “I have no idea what I am doing, but incompetence has never prevented me from plunging in with enthusiasm.”

A look back at Allen’s filmography shows that he is far from ignorant when it comes to opera. In fact, the director has used opera and operatic references in numerous movies, demonstrating a genuine appreciation if not a deep knowledge of the art form.  (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)