This is a movie that revolves around the mystery surrounding Ludwig Von Beethoven's last will and testament. Particularly the identity of his unnamed "Immortal Beloved" to whom he had bequeathed the entirety of his estate.
Quick of pace for a period dramatical piece and performed by a more than competent ensemble. Gary Oldman perfectly portrays The Maestro through the different stages of his life from young rascal, villain, and national treasure never for a moment stepping of the line that separates madness from genius. The entirety transcends the budgetary limitations made obvious in some parts of the feature.
Notable is the stark contrast between the grand Vienna of Mozart as depicted in the film Amadeus and Beethoven's gray Vienna where the rise of Napoleon to the South has cast a shadow of uncertainty and gloom over not just the city but the entire continent.
Beethoven's music becomes one of the essential characters of the movie through Solti's deft musical direction with pieces selected from the Maestro's immense body of works to give the viewer insight into the workings of Beethoven's embattled heart and mind. It is truly the fabric that hold the movie together.
While succumbing to some moments of melodrama, this is made up for by the many unforgettable and riveting scenes.
This was one of the first BDs to be released and the transfer might not be up to par with todays releases. Navigation is clunky and chapters way too long. It is also slim in the special features department.
Still this is a movie that I recommend to anybody that likes music or film but especially to those that love both.
A fitting homage to one of the true giants of music.
Quick of pace for a period dramatical piece and performed by a more than competent ensemble. Gary Oldman perfectly portrays The Maestro through the different stages of his life from young rascal, villain, and national treasure never for a moment stepping of the line that separates madness from genius. The entirety transcends the budgetary limitations made obvious in some parts of the feature.
Notable is the stark contrast between the grand Vienna of Mozart as depicted in the film Amadeus and Beethoven's gray Vienna where the rise of Napoleon to the South has cast a shadow of uncertainty and gloom over not just the city but the entire continent.
Beethoven's music becomes one of the essential characters of the movie through Solti's deft musical direction with pieces selected from the Maestro's immense body of works to give the viewer insight into the workings of Beethoven's embattled heart and mind. It is truly the fabric that hold the movie together.
While succumbing to some moments of melodrama, this is made up for by the many unforgettable and riveting scenes.
This was one of the first BDs to be released and the transfer might not be up to par with todays releases. Navigation is clunky and chapters way too long. It is also slim in the special features department.
Still this is a movie that I recommend to anybody that likes music or film but especially to those that love both.
A fitting homage to one of the true giants of music.
