For insight into Beethoven’s character, read Beethoven Lives Upstairs (a children’s book, but one that taught me enough about the composer that his character in the film harbored no surprises). The only other worthy aspect of this movie was, of course, the glorious music (particularly during the Ninth Symphony premier), but I’d rather listen to a good recording of it than listen to it in the context of a mediocre plot.

Not only was this film breathtaking in both image and sound, but it allowed me to come face to face with a realistic image of one of the greatest composers of our time. Some have claimed that Ed Harris did a poor job in his role, which I find unbelieveable. If Beethoven were as they displayed him I would not be surprised at all, given his childhood and life in general. For once I saw the great composer portrayed as a human being rather than a tragic untouchable of history.

Sure it wasn’t historically accurate, but if everything was then we wouldn’t have some of the wonderful historical fiction crossovers we do today now would we? I rather enjoyed Diane Kruger’s character.

The only complaint I have is on Beethoven’s nephew. I wished that had either expanded on that part of the story or left it out entirely. It was only partly developed then entirely forgotten after the preimere.

If for nothing else, watch this movie for the stunning visuals and the glorious Ninth Symphony premiere scene!