Leise flehen meine Lieder

I saw this movie at a weekly free movie session run at the Contemporary Art Museum of Kumamoto.

I was moved, listening Ave Maria at the last scene. This movie portrays the unfinished love life of the genius composer. Listening to many titles of his music, I realized Schubert was a true music genius. Both the screenplay and the performance are awkward like other movies 80 years ago. Sound is terrible. The story is a complete fiction. Nevertheless, after seeing it, I felt sense of fulfillment that I saw a good movie.

By the way, I am surprised that no one posted a review to this movie. It seems there is no English version, though this one is well rated in Japan. Maybe it is a reflection of that Schubert is more popular in Japan than the US…?

Being a fan of Schubert, whether it's his orchestral or chamber music or even more his songs (he was the most prolific Lieder composer, over 600 if remembered correctly, and a large amount of them are masterpieces and among the best songs in any style or language), and who is appreciating Marta Eggerth more, interest for watching was high.

Luckily, neither 'Unfinished Symphony' or this alternate language version disappoint, though 'Unfinished Symphony' has a better flow. It is not one of the greatest composer biopics out there but it is one of the most unjustly under-appreciated ones and a must for those who loves Schubert's music and wants to know more about him. There are a few instances of less than sumptuous photography (though most of the time it's fine), stilted dialogue and dull sound, but criticisms really are few.

'Lover Divine' is mostly lushly produced, with gorgeous costumes and elegant settings, with a truly luscious romantic atmosphere evoked. The story of the composer's life and how he came to not finish the symphony makes for fascinating viewing, it may not be entirely accurate but historical accuracy or lack of it however hardly ever masks my enjoyment for the film and regardless it is beautifully told.

Words cannot describe how masterful Schubert's music is, we are given a healthy dose of it here (some of it among his most famous pieces and his best) and it benefits hugely from the involvement of the rich playing of the orchestra and the fine singing from Eggerth. Standouts are Eggerth's rendition of "Standchen" (beginning with the line "Leise Flehen Meine Lieder") and the movingly stirring choral performance of "Ave Maria". The use of the "Unfinished" symphony was too inspired.

Willi Forst directs well. Hans Jaray is a wonderfully sensitive and confident Schubert, while Eggerth beguiles again in a role well suited to her. The supporting cast are more at ease in 'Unfinished Symphony' but they are still more than competent.

In conclusion, lovely if not quite divine. 8/10 Bethany Cox