This 2012 film is a story told often and in many forms. In fact, there appear to be no less than seven versions of this film, dating back to 1922 and new versions continue to be made. Ludwig II., otherwise known as Mad King Ludwig, is the focus of the film. It follows him through the end of his youth and into mental disease.
Sabin Tambrea plays Ludwig II. in this version. He has a very Eddie Redmayne way about him, which adds intrigue for today’s students. He’s been acting regularly since 2009. The aged Ludwig II. is played by Sebastian Schipper. Most of his roles appear to be smaller, but he has taken part in Winterschläfer, Lola rennt, and many other films dating back to 1992.
We begin in a time when Ludwig’s father is still alive and see Ludwig’s opinion of all things he is supposed to enjoy and support as a royal, his reaction to becoming king, and his plans to build his castle with the inspiration of Richard Wagner’s musical works. The latter was a point of great stress for the advisors, as Wagner was rather notorious at this time and it was believed that creditors and politicians who supported Wagner, or indeed came into business with him at all, would fall apart. With Ludwig’s support, Wagner continued writing, beginning with Tristan und Isolde.
As the film continues, we learn about Ludwig’s brother Otto’s breakdown as well. Ludwig had to respond to this issue as well deal with his own.
This film is more than two hours long, but it is filled with history and talking points. Although they show his death, this is only one possibility of how it may have happened. The circumstances surrounding Ludwig’s death are not fully known.
Note please that IMDB mentions brief nudity. The only nudity I have been able to find in all of my viewings was a naked man swimming, seen from behind. It is easy to skip or edit if this is a concern for your viewers.