Synopsis

*Copying Beethoven*, a new film by Polish cineaste Agnieszka Holland, well known for the acclaimed films Angry Harvest, Europa Europa, and The Secret Garden, takes a unique look at Beethoven’s last days through the fictional character of Anna Holtz, a copyist for Beethoven’s scores. In the heart of musical Vienna, 23-year-old aspiring composer Anna pursues her ambitions despite all the obstacles. One day, she seizes the opportunity to assist the mythic and intimidating Beethoven. Unsure of her potential, Beethoven devises an impromptu test for her, which she passes with flying colors. This unusual encounter will result in big changes in both lives. Unlike other films depicting Beethoven—a popular cinematic subject due to his eccentricities and hearing loss—this film focuses on Beethoven as a human being. While the last few years of his life were plagued by his troublesome family, disastrous hearing loss, and increasing alienation from his peers, ironically Beethoven composed his greatest masterpieces during the same period. Classical music lovers will be delighted with the avant-garde opening of Beethoven’s String Quartet *Grosse Fuge in B Flat Major, Op.134*, and thrilled by the debut of Beethoven’s *Symphony No.9 in D minor, Op.125*, the greatest symphony in music history. Ed Harris as Beethoven delivers a heartfelt performance, as does Diane Kruger in her star turn as Anna. Drawing from a profound understanding of Beethoven and his music, Holland exhibits stunning delicacy in her fine directing, enriching the story by placing Anna between Beethoven and her architect lover.

Director

Agnieszka Holland

Agnieszka Holland was born in Warsaw, Poland, and later moved to Czechoslovakia to study film directing at FAMU in Prague. She began her film career as an assistant director to the Polish master Krzysztof Zanussi and studied under Andrzej Wajda. After debuting as a director, her works received acclaim at major film festivals and led the Polish New Wave movement. She currently works across both Poland and the United States. Her major works include Angry Harvest (1985), Europa Europa (1990), Olivier, Olivier (1992), The Secret Garden (1993), Total Eclipse (1995), Washington Square (1997), The Third Miracle (1999), and Julie Walking Home (2002).