A talented woman becomes a muse to two of the world's great composers in this historical drama. Clara Schumann (Martina Gedeck) is a gifted pianist and composer, but her talents are overshadowed by those of her husband, Robert Schumann (Pascal Greggory). Robert is supportive of Clara's creative ambitions, while she loves him and clearly admires his work. But Robert is a troubled man whose mental illness is aggravated by his appetite for alcohol and drugs. One night, Clara hears a performance by the young Johannes Brahms (Malik Zidi) and she's transported by the beauty of his music. Clara befriends the budding composer and helps him guide his talents while striking up a strong friendship with him; he becomes a frequent presence in the Schumann household, and brings happiness to a home that's been darkened by Robert's growing instability. Geliebte Clara (aka Clara) was written and directed by Helma Sanders-Brahms, who happens to be a distant relative of one of her principle characters, Johannes Brahms.
by Mark Deming
synopsis
