Immortal Beloved
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Product details
Actor: Christopher Fulford, Hannes Flaschberger, Luigi Diberti, Michael Culkin, Rory EdwardsPrimary Contributor: Jeroen Krabbé
Primary Contributor: Gary Oldman
Edition: VHS Tape
Format: Closed-captioned, Color, NTSC
Running Time: 120 minutes
Release Date: 1997-09-30
Audience Rating: R (Restricted)
Publisher: Sony Pictures
Studio: Sony Pictures
VHS Movie Reviews of Immortal Beloved
Movie Review: Fiery Passion and Genius
Summary: 5 Stars
Though this is a work of fiction, it does in fact reveal the genius of Beethoven himself, through passions and rages of scorching intensity. Director Bernard Rose in the commentary compares the film's construction to that of "Citizen Kane," in that it begins with a mystery that begs to be solved if the man is to be understood. In this case, it's a final will bequeathing everything to his "Immortal Beloved," along with an undelivered billet-doux to the unknown woman. In the course of trying to fulfill the maestro's last wishes, the executor of Beethoven's estate explores the composer's past. Through flashbacks, Beethoven's dizzying genius and private pain are revealed. It's true, that there is some license here, but it's respectful of the facts, and tries to stay within the lines while exploring the possibilities. First, there really was such a final will discovered among his papers. Also, the custody battle over his nephew is well documented, and transcripts were consulted for some word-for-word re-creation, as Rose discloses in his commentary. The film takes license in that Rose purports to have solved the mystery, and he makes such a strong case, I'm partially convinced he has.
But all of that is merely a means of exploring Beethoven. A thorough knowledge of his music would probably heighten the appreciation of some references to it. For instance, thought I can't claim to know that much, I do know that the 5th Symphony is about fate knocking at one's door. The very first image of the film is of Beethoven's hoary head on a white pillow, surrounded by night. Lightning strobes in sync with the sudden obtrusion of the 5th. He succumbs. It was an artful touch, and there might be others similar to it that I didn't catch. But it adverted to me from the outset that this would be a meticulously crafted film.
For the performances by the actors, I'm not sure I'm being hyperbolic in saying that Gary Oldman is as stellar an actor as Beethoven was a composer. He was downright explosive at times, disdainful others, but somehow always sympathetic. His performance was nothing short of magnificent. In one of the two documentaries included on the disc, Oldman admits that he turned the role down a couple of times, until his agent convinced him it would be the right thing. Thank heaven! He was a fierce presence every time he was on the screen, as you'd imagine Beethoven himself must have been when he walked into a room.
If you already own the SD DVD, as I did, and you still love this film, I suggest you go ahead and upgrade to the Blu-ray. There is so much filigree in the location shots and the costumes, it definitely benefited throughout from the hi-def transfer, and made seeing it even more pleasurable. The artistry of the film is given a more rightful emphasis.
As for the special features, there's been nothing added from the previous SD edition. But in this case, the beauty of the film itself makes it worth the upgrade.
Movie Review: Immortal Beloved, on Blu-ray is pure perfection!
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a magnificent film of great performances and inspired storytelling. I'm sure it plays fast and loose with historical fact, but anyone who can appreciate Beethoven's genius can surely find a fondness for this story. Gary Oldman portrays Beethoven with an aloof complexity; he leaves the viewer spellbound with a hunger for more about Beethoven's life. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with outstanding performances from Valeria Golino, Isabella Rossellini and Jeoren Krabbe. I can find no fault with Immortal Beloved as it tells an engrossing story through masterful performances and an amazing attention to period detail. Of course, the music of Beethoven is also profoundly moving, especially within the context of the film. This is a beautifully shot film with loads of natural grain and a fine attention to the most minute of period details.And speaking of detail, closely watch the many delicate fabrics that are used in the film's costuming. Beethoven's funeral is a notable scene where all of the women in attendance are wearing veils. The amount of detail in these veils is among the most startling fine film detail I've yet seen conveyed in a home video presentation. Immortal Beloved, on Blu-ray is pure perfection! TrueHD soundtrack is outstanding and succeeds in every aspect. Sure, there is one scene where cannon-fire is nicely directional, but the remainder of the film is more ambient with a focus on performed music taking up the appropriate space in your home theater. Most of this music relies on the front speakers, but rear fill adds a nice acoustic touch in reproducing the atmosphere from whatever room in which we are watching the music performed.
I've been a huge fan of the film for years and am thrilled to be able to experience it in my home in such outstanding quality.It would be a crime if I didn't give this film my highest recommendation.
Movie Review: Beautiful color, wonderful story.
Summary: 4 Stars
The blu-ray transfer on "Immortal Beloved" is excellent. Everything is distinctly clear, and the colors are vivid. The acting is very good. Story is touching with a great ending. Keeps you guessing. Recommended. Movie Review: Movie making at it's best.
Summary: 5 Stars
If you have no appreciation for Beethoven or his music watching this film will undoubtedly change that. Directed with real verve and finely acted by the likes of Gary Oldman, I loved watching this film. I own this movie and drag it out every once in a while. Great recordings of his music by the current masters infuse some scenes with intense emotion: the emotions Beethoven himself must have felt. This is one of the finest period films I have seen, and can only recommend it highly.Movie Review: Magnificent
Summary: 5 Stars
This movie has achieved the daunting task of being good enough for its music. I don't collect many movies because, even if I enjoyed them, I don't want to sit through them again after I know the endings. This is an exception. The acting and filmography are so great (not to mention the music) that I enjoy watching it over and over, even though I know the surprise ending. So well done.
Summary of Immortal Beloved
This sumptuous and moving 1994 film written and directed by Bernard Rose (Candyman) investigates the artistic and romantic passions of one of the greatest composers of all time. Featuring a superb performance by Gary Oldman (Sid and Nancy) as Ludwig van Beethoven, Immortal Beloved is full of uncommonly vivid, rich imagery as it charts the tumultuous life of the deaf child prodigy and his rise to the height of musical achievement. Along the way, he attempts to play mentor to his nephew, attend to his many passionate romances--the most stable one was with a countess (Isabella Rossellini)--and fight bouts of depression and madness that ruled his life and his art. The film is framed around a "Rosebud"-type letter found after the composer's death that makes up the crux of the story. Jeroen Krabbé (The Fugitive), playing Beethoven's lifelong friend, attempts to discover who Beethoven's muse really was, becoming as driven as his friend in discovering the unlikely identity of the composer's "immortal beloved." Through this we gain an insight into the nature of obsession, romance, and the heights and sacrifices of artistic achievement. The film exhibits some extraordinary sound design, and the finale features a magical encapsulation of Beethoven's life and loves set to his "Ode to Joy." As an exciting and passionate journey, Immortal Beloved is its own masterpiece. --Robert LaneDrama Video
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