Louis van Beethoven 2020

The film intricately weaves between the twilight years of Ludwig van Beethoven (portrayed by Tobias Moretti) and his formative years in Bonn. In his later life, Beethoven is depicted as having succumbed to deafness, grappling with the intense emotional turmoil surrounding him. He finds himself at the residence of his brother Johann van Beethoven (played by Cornelius Obonya) in Gneixendorf, alongside his nephew Karl (Peter Lewys Preston), who has recently attempted to take his own life. This setting creates a claustrophobic environment where Beethoven often clashes with those around him, reminding us of the turbulent backdrop that shapes his memories and reflections on his childhood.

Flashbacks transport us to Beethoven’s early years as a child (portrayed by Colin Pütz), where he emerges as a remarkable musical talent. His father embodies a relentless drive, harboring aspirations for his son to become the next Mozart. Utilizing his connections as a court singer, Ludwig’s father secures mentors and musical opportunities for him. The young composer also encounters Tobias Pfeiffer, a local actor who stays with their family, broadening his exposure to the arts.

As time progresses, Beethoven transitions into his teenage years (depicted by Anselm Bresgott), where his musical ambitions flourish, yet he is met with profound personal loss. The passing of his mother deepens his father’s despair, leading him further into the depths of alcoholism. Amidst this chaos, Ludwig also finds affection with Eleonore von Breuning (Caroline Hellwig), a relationship marked by societal barriers, as their differing social standings make their union impossible.

In a fascinating tribute to the era of Beethoven, the filmmakers opted to use replicas of period instruments crafted by modern piano maker Paul McNulty, effectively immersing the audience in the authentic soundscape of the composer’s time. This artistic choice not only enriches the auditory experience but also connects the viewers to the poignant narrative of a man whose genius transcended the trials of his life.