Copying Beethoven

Aroview: Fictionalised account of the last year of Beethoven’s life which looks at the musical genius’ personal fall from grace and struggle for redemption.

Ed Harris is strong in the titular role – playing the composer when he was subjected to having a copyist approach his work in order for him to complete the score in time for a debut performance of his Ninth Symphony. Occassionally overwrought – as with the earlier Gary Oldman-vehicle (IMMORTAL BELOVED) this is a dense drama concerning one of the music world’s most important, enduring figures.