Ludwig (1972)

Editor's Note Keeping in step with the themes of THE DAMNED and DEATH IN VENICE, Luchino Visconti's final entry in his "German Trilogy" further explores issues of complicated and repressed sexuality. A lush, atmospheric dramatization of a tormented Bavarian king's brief but colorful reign, LUDWIG traces the ruler's loves for Elisabeth of Austria (his cousin) and composer Richard Wagner, culminating with his final descent into madness.

	Trevor Howard
	Silvana Mangano
	Gert Frobe
	Helmut Berger
	Helmut Griem
	Romy Schneider
	Luchino Visconti - Director

Sight and Sound
"Helmut Berger's febrile performance galvanises Visconti's sumptuously shot [film]....The set-pieces are lavish and beautifully crafted..." 09/01/2006 p.89

Film Comment
"LUDWIG is a lavish, virtuosic film....Actor Helmut Berger undergoes a remarkable transformation..." 11/01/2008 p.76