I had seen the butchered English-language version that was released in 1972, but it might as well have been an entirely different film, for seeing the fully restored Italian version was like seeing it for the first time, a revelation, and so obviously an underestimated masterpiece. Yes it's long, and like other of Visconti's opera-like epics, requires patience, but giving oneself over to its deliberate, meticulously detailed pacing is richly rewarding - the splendid cinematography, stunning sets and lighting, Wagner's music, and the stellar cast: Romy Schneider, Trevor Howard (perfect as Richard Wagner), Silvana Mangano, Helmut Griem, and of course Helmut Berger in the role of his life. I was in awe of just how great he is, gradually transcending his looks in portraying King Ludwig's complex, conflicted character - at times unlikable, others sublime, tragic and ultimately heartbreaking. The story of the end of an era, of the Bavarian Empire, and of Romantic idealism itself, it can also be seen as allegory for Visconti's own artistic aspirations and conflicts, his excesses and foibles. Not least of all remarkable for not shying away from homosexuality. (Visconti was unabashed about casting Berger, his real-life lover.) Truly magnificent.
Review of Ludwig
