This was one of the finest simulcasts I've ever seen. All the performances were topnotch, especially those of the three leads, Simon Keenlyside, Marlis Petersen (who had to fill in for an ailing Natalie Dessaye!) and Jennifer Larmore. I was riveted from the first moment to the last. The orchestra never sounded better.
Renée Fleming does an outstanding job as interviewer between acts--she's an insider who knows what she's talking about and she's funny too. She actually interviewed Keenlyside when he was covered with dripping red wine!
I've seen opera live at the Met, and have to say I like the simulcasts better. The lighting was a little dim in this production and I would have had a hard time seeing the facial expressions if it hadn't been for the fantastic camera work and closeups. You just can't get that live, even with great opera glasses.
I will probably buy the video if and when it comes out.