Copying Beethoven (2006)

Anchored in the opulent heart of 1824 Vienna, the film "Copying Beethoven" unfurls the unexpected alliance between Ludwig van Beethoven, an aging, deaf, and irascible genius, and Anna Holtz, a 23-year-old ambitious composition student. As Beethoven teeters on the precipice of debuting his Ninth Symphony, he finds himself in dire need of assistance to transcribe his intricate musical charts. The task falls to Anna, an ardent admirer of his work, who is sent to aid the temperamental maestro. Thrown into the turbulent world of her idol, Anna is initially taken aback by Beethoven's brusque and crude demeanor, a stark contrast to the musical harmony that he crafts. Yet, she perseveres, providing not just transcription assistance but also offering guidance from the orchestra pit during the symphony's premiere. This shared endeavor sparks a complex, often difficult mentorship, revealing the raw passion and relentless drive that fuels Beethoven's genius. Over the next two years, marking the twilight of Beethoven's life, Anna continues to support the ailing composer, serving as both his aide and student. Through this shared journey of sound and silence, Beethoven elucidates the principles of Romanticism, imbuing Anna with an understanding of his revolutionary ideas. In this imagined narrative, the film paints a vivid portrait of Beethoven's final years, weaving an intricate tapestry of the beautiful and the 'ugly', the divine and the human, while offering an intimate glimpse into the mind of a master composer. "Copying Beethoven" is a profound exploration of genius and dedication, where musical notations become a language of their own, and the maestro attempts to speak for God through his symphony. The film celebrates the spirit of perseverance, the power of music, and the remarkable beauty that can be found even in the most challenging mentorships.

Copying Beethoven is a drama movie featuring Ed Harris.

It is possible to buy Copying Beethoven on Vudu.