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As suggested by its title, Eroica is a re-creation of events in the life of Ludwig Von Beethoven. Ewald Balser stars as the legendary composer, while Marianna Schoenaper and Judith Holzmeister co-star as the two women in Beethoven's life. The dramatic nucleus of the film is the composition of the titular symphony, written as a paean to Napoleon. Beethoven comes to regret his earlier admiration of the "the little corporal" when the latter appoints himself emperor. The final scenes detail Beethoven's adjustment to his encroaching deafness. Eroica was lensed on location in Vienna, often in the actual places where Beethoven worked and relaxed; accordingly, the music is provided by the Vienna Philharmonic, the Vienna State Symphony, the Vienna State Opera and the Vienna Boys' Choir.