Synopsis

In 2023, filmmaker Larry Weinstein sets out to create a documentary asking how far humanity has come in the 200 years since Beethoven composed his Ninth Symphony. But as global events unfold, Larry finds himself drawn into the narrative, and the film takes on a more personal dimension. Following nine unique individuals, the film explores the legacy of Beethoven’s Ninth, the struggles of the composer himself, and the enduring power of music to inspire—even in the darkest of times.

Program Note

Renowned documentary filmmaker Larry Weinstein is commissioned to make a film marking the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. As he follows the Freedom Orchestra—composed of Ukrainian refugee musicians—preparing to perform the piece, the project takes an unexpected turn. Tragedy strikes when Larry’s sister and her husband, living near Gaza, go missing in a Hamas-led attack. Beethoven Nine evolves into a powerful reflection on war—not just as a personal tragedy, but as a shared human catastrophe. In a time of conflict, Beethoven’s message of joy, peace, and universal brotherhood rings louder than ever. (Choi Eun-young)

Director

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  • Larry Weinstein
  • Larry Weinstein is considered one of the world’s leading music documentary filmmakers, with around 40 films combining dramatic, experimental, and documentary techniques. His debut film, Making Overtures: The Story of a Community Orchestra (1984), was nominated for an Academy Award. Other acclaimed works include September Songs (1994), Shostakovich Against Stalin: The War Symphonies (1997), and Ravel's Brain (2001), which earned him Emmy Awards. Many of his films have been Emmy nominees and winners of Gemini Awards and Canadian Screen Awards.