MJFF – Beethoven’s Nine
Beethoven’s Nine
Larry Weinstein, Canada-Germany, 2024, 90min
Language: English
Can a work of art remain relevant 200 years after its creation? Ludwig van Beethoven’s final symphony proves it can. As one of the most recognizable pieces of classical music, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 has been performed worldwide in moments of profound significance—from Leonard Bernstein’s iconic performance to mark the fall of the Berlin Wall to the Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra’s powerful response to the Russian invasion. With its timeless “Ode to Joy,” the symphony continues to resonate as a profound expression of hope, resilience, love, and freedom. Academy Award-nominated director Larry Weinstein explores the enduring legacy of this masterpiece, delving into the composer’s struggles, the inspiration it provides, and the unbreakable connection between art and life—especially as recent personal and global events, including the October 7 tragedy in Israel, shed new light on its relevance today.
