Following The Ninth: In The Footsteps of Beethoven's Final Symphony

Following The Ninth: In The Footsteps of Beethoven's Final Symphony is a captivating 2013 documentary that explores the profound impact of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony on human consciousness, from Tokyo to Chile. Directed by Kerry Candaele, the film features renowned musician Billy Bragg and a myriad of other talents from around the world. The movie is a deeply emotive exploration of Beethoven's powerful music and its resonance across different cultures and eras.

The film begins with a compelling introduction to Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. Known as "Ode to Joy," the symphony is considered Beethoven's crowning achievement and one of the most powerful compositions in Western music. The documentary takes a comprehensive look at the symphony's creation; understanding Beethoven was nearly completely deaf when he composed the Ninth, adds greater depth to appreciate this magnificent work.

Following The Ninth doesn't limit itself to the analysis of Beethoven's genius alone but instead, it reaches into the heart of mankind, tracing the symphony's impact on different societies. The film centers on four different tales unfolding in four different parts of the world - namely, China, Chile, Germany, and Japan, each presenting an absorbing, humanistic, and socially relevant story connected to the Ninth Symphony.

For instance, the documentary artfully showcases how "Ode to Joy" becomes an unexpected anthem during the Pinochet dictatorship in Chile. Candaele beautifully unfolds the scene where Chilean women sang and hummed the symphony outside torture prisons, revealing the immense power of music in the face of brutal oppressive forces. From Chile to China, the tune moves, showing how it played an influential role in Tiananmen Square, inspiring student activists to stand up for their democratic rights against authoritarian rule.

Then, the film takes a celebratory turn in Japan where the Ninth Symphony has gained enormous popularity. Candaele presents a fascinating musical phenomenon where every year, thousands of Japanese individuals come together for a mammoth chorus, ringing in the New Year by singing Beethoven's Ninth. The Japanese sequences explore what this Western composition means to the Eastern world; it's seen as catharsis, an affirmation of unity or a way to honor the harmony of existence.

Next destination is Germany, where the Ninth Symphony was played after the Berlin Wall fell, symbolizing freedom and the end of days of separation. The film also touches on the conflicted history of the Ninth being used by both the Nazis for propaganda and the Allies as a symbol of freedom during World War II.

Added, Following the Ninth gives a stage to people for whom this specific composition has personal significance. Billy Bragg, the legendary British folk singer, uses Beethoven's euphoric symphony to give voice to the universal cry for justice and brotherhood. He draws on the symphony to fuel his own music and share messages of hope and social justice. His participation glosses up the narrative, offering poignant commentary on how music can instigate change and bridge cultural and social gaps.

Underlying the entire film is Beethoven's own story of struggle and resilience. Despite his deteriorating health and loss of hearing, Beethoven created a piece of art that continues to enthral and inspire millions. The "Ode to Joy" is more than just a piece of music; in the hands of different societies, it becomes a signal of resistance, a call for freedom, a beacon of hope, and a hymn of unity.

In Following The Ninth, Candael effectively delves into both the historical material and contemporary scenes involving the Ninth Symphony. The beautifully photographed scenery from different countries adds to the immersive experience, allowing viewers to form a deeper bond with this iconic piece of music. The lush cinematography, combined with expertly paced storytelling, carries the audience on an inspiring journey-- a rich odyssey of struggle, resistance, and the soothing power of music.

In essence, Following The Ninth: In The Footsteps of Beethoven's Final Symphony is a testament to the transformative power of music. A heartening tribute to Beethoven's masterpiece, the film reiterates music's profound capability to touch souls, heal wounds, motivate rebellion, and bring people together despite geographical and cultural differences. The film's narrative shines a well-deserved light on a timeless symphony that has harmoniously echoed through turbulent times, pushing the boundaries of a standard music documentary into the realm of a moving sociocultural study.