Watch The Von Trapp Family: A Life of Music

The Von Trapp Family: A Life of Music is a 2015 drama film based on the true story of the Von Trapp family, famous for their musical talents and their escape from Nazi-occupied Austria in 1938. The film follows the life of Agathe Von Trapp, the eldest daughter of the family, and her journey to become a renowned singer and performer alongside her siblings.

The film begins in 1926, as we watch Agathe (played by Eliza Bennett) and her siblings grow up in an idyllic family estate in Austria. Their father, Georg (Matthew Macfadyen), is a respected naval captain who is struggling to raise his seven children alone after the death of his wife. Music becomes an essential part of their lives after their father hires a young music teacher, Maria (Yvonne Catterfeld), to homeschool them.

Maria transforms the family's life with her musical talent and infectious spirit. She teaches the children how to sing beautifully, and together they create a family choir that soon becomes famous in Austria. As the family's reputation grows, they are asked to perform for audiences across Europe, and their musical talent brings them both personal triumph and political danger.

The film highlights the political climate of Austria during the 1930s, when the Nazis were beginning to rise to power. Georg is reluctant to get involved in politics, but Agathe becomes increasingly vocal about her anti-Nazi beliefs. Agathe and her siblings witness firsthand the effects of the Nazis on their country, and the family eventually makes the difficult decision to flee Austria for the safety of America.

The film features beautiful music performances by the talented cast, including classic songs like "Edelweiss," "My Favorite Things," and "Do Re Mi." The actors do an excellent job of portraying the Von Trapp family, and the film captures the family's love of music, their deep bond with each other, and their determination to survive during a tumultuous time in history.

The performances of the three leads stand out. Eliza Bennett shines as the determined and passionate Agathe, whose love for music is matched only by her love for her family. Matthew Macfadyen delivers a nuanced performance as Georg, whose strict exterior hides a deep love for his children. And Rosemary Harris is excellent as the wise and kind family matriarch, who provides guidance and support to her grandchildren.

The film does an excellent job of portraying the political and historical backdrop against which the Von Trapp family's story unfolded. The Nazis are depicted as a looming threat throughout the film, and Agathe's growing awareness of their danger adds an emotional intensity to the story. The film also touches on themes of family, love, and loyalty, as the Von Trapps are forced to rely on each other as they navigate the uncertainties of their future.

Overall, The Von Trapp Family: A Life of Music is a heartfelt and engaging film that will delight fans of the original Sound of Music as well as those who appreciate a good biopic. With excellent performances and beautiful music, it tells the inspiring story of a family whose love of music helped them to overcome adversity and find hope in troubled times.

The Von Trapp Family: A Life of Music is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.