The Tales of Hoffmann is a 1951 British film directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. It is adapted from Jacques Offenbach's opera of the same name, which is based on three short stories by German writer E.T.A. Hoffmann.
The film stars Robert Rounseville as Hoffmann, a melancholy poet who recounts his past romantic misadventures to a group of guests at a tavern. Each of Hoffmann's stories portrays a different woman he has loved and lost, with surreal and supernatural elements woven into each tale.
In the first story, Hoffmann becomes enamored with Olympia (played by Moira Shearer), a mechanical doll created by inventor Spalanzani (Leonide Massine). Despite warnings from his friend Nicklausse (Ann Ayars) that Olympia is not human, Hoffmann falls for her charms and dances with her at a party. Later, he discovers that Olympia is not only a machine, but also controlled by Spalanzani's rival, inventor Coppelius (also played by Massine).
Hoffmann's second tale involves his encounter with the courtesan Giulietta (Ludmilla Tcherina), who is under the control of the villainous magician Dapertutto (Robert Helpmann). Dapertutto uses his powers to persuade Giulietta to seduce Hoffmann and steal a valuable diamond from him. Despite Nicklausse's attempts to intervene, Hoffmann is again left heartbroken.
The final story is the most tragic, as Hoffmann falls in love with the singer Antonia (Anne Ayars), who is afflicted with a fatal illness. Her father (Walter Slezak) forbids her from singing, as her excessive vocal exertion could hasten her death. However, the ghostly figure of Antonia's mother (also played by Ayars) appears to her and encourages her to sing. With Hoffmann's encouragement, Antonia begins to sing for an adoring crowd, but ultimately collapses and dies in Hoffmann's arms.
Throughout the film, the character of Nicklausse acts as a guide and confidant for Hoffmann, and appears to be a kind of alter ego for the poet. The film's spectacular set designs and richly detailed costumes add to the surreal and fantastical atmosphere of the story. The Tales of Hoffmann remains a visually stunning and engrossing film adaptation of Offenbach's beloved opera.