Watch Copying Beethoven

Copying Beethoven is a 2006 biographical drama directed by Agnieszka Holland, starring Ed Harris, Diane Kruger, and Matthew Goode. The film takes place in Vienna, Austria, in the year 1824 and tells the story of Anna Holtz (Diane Kruger), a music student who is hired as a copyist to assist Ludwig van Beethoven (Ed Harris), the most famous composer of his time, in completing his Ninth Symphony.

Beethoven is depicted as a man struggling with deafness, creative blocks, and personal demons, which have left him increasingly isolated from society. When Anna arrives at Beethoven's residence, she is initially intimidated by the aging composer's erratic behavior and reputation for being difficult to work with. However, as the two begin to collaborate on the famous symphony, Anna's talent impresses Beethoven, and they develop a unique bond that transcends their differences.

The film explores themes of artistic passion, dedication, and the price of genius. Beethoven is portrayed as a flawed human being who is, at times, ruthless and tyrannical when dealing with those around him. However, he is also shown to be vulnerable, lonely, and searching for a kindred spirit who can understand and appreciate his art.

Anna, on the other hand, is presented as a determined and talented musician who is struggling to find her own voice in a male-dominated field. Her relationship with Beethoven pushes her to confront her limitations and insecurities, and she becomes inspired by his visionary approach to music.

The film also includes several historical figures, such as Anton Schindler (Matthew Goode), Beethoven's personal secretary, and his friend and patron, Countess Anna Marie Erdödy (Phyllida Law), who provide context for the cultural and political milieu of the time.

The soundtrack of the film features many of Beethoven's works, including the Ninth Symphony, the Moonlight Sonata, and the Kreutzer Sonata, and the cinematography captures the beauty and grandeur of Vienna's architecture and landscape.

In short, Copying Beethoven is a captivating portrait of one of the greatest musical minds in history and the creative process that went into the making of his masterpiece. The film is a tribute to the enduring power of art and the human spirit, and it showcases the talents of its exceptional cast and crew.

Copying Beethoven is a 2006 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7 and a MetaScore of 59.