Exclusive Premiere of 'The Fabrication of Beethoven'
Prime Video has officially announced the exclusive streaming of the live-action film 'The Fabrication of Beethoven,' co-produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Shochiku, starting January 23, 2026. This film, part of the Amazon Prime benefits, will be available to Prime members, who enjoy unlimited use of fast shipping options like same-day or next-day delivery, along with various shopping perks and entertainment content.
Based on the highly-regarded historical non-fiction masterpiece 'The Fabrication of Beethoven: The Legendary Producer Lies' by Shiho Kagehara, the script has been crafted by renowned writer Bac-arhythm, who is known for capturing the essence of Beethoven's character. Bac-arhythm previously collaborated with director Kazuhiro Seki on successful projects such as 'Woman Who Might Be' (2015), 'Hell's Flower Garden' (2021), and 'Ken Shiro’s Regards' (2023), making this their fourth collaboration. The film combines a unique storytelling style with a rich musical direction, ensuring audiences are taken on an emotional journey through 19th-century Vienna.
Actors Yuuki Yamada as the loyal secretary Schindler, who dedicates his life to protecting Beethoven's image, and Shinta Furuta portraying the genius musician himself, bring profound depth to the characters. Supporting performances include Masataka Kubota as the American music journalist Seiya, who begins to question Schindler's narrative. This gathering of Japan’s finest actors creates an unforgettable portrayal of historical figures, merging drama and music seamlessly in the backdrop of modern Europe.
The film promises to feature Beethoven's iconic pieces, including the well-loved 'Symphony No. 9' (also known as the 'Choral Symphony'), and the 'Beethoven Fabrication Main Theme,' performed by renowned pianist Nobuya Kiyozuka. With these moving musical selections, audiences will gain a deeper appreciation of Beethoven's genius.
Bac-arhythm shares his insights into the character dynamics: 'Furuta's Beethoven is essentially a man devoid of moral character unless gifted with musical genius, while Yamada's Schindler starts off being a refreshing young gentleman but gradually reveals abnormal traits. Both characters exhibit a kind of delightful oddity through their shortcomings, which audiences will surely enjoy.'
Yuuki Yamada, the lead, further expresses excitement about the project: 'Thanks to Bac-arhythm's imaginative setup of 'a student's whimsical dream,' we were able to embody the characters as Germans. I hope everyone enjoys the delightful portrayals and clever character depictions!'
Nicole Clemens, who oversees international original productions at Amazon MGM Studios, also commented, 'Schindler could never have imagined that two centuries after their deaths, such a film would be produced in Japan. Enjoy the music alongside this captivating story.'
Synopsis
The film chronicles the life of the great composer Beethoven, who overcame the challenges of deafness to leave behind a legacy of masterpieces. However, behind this revered facade lies a crude and disheveled man. His loyal secretary Schindler, inspired by a mission to uphold Beethoven’s sacred image, fabricates an idealized version of the composer posthumously, transforming the truth from a raucous old man to a divine musical genius.
Yet, Schindler's deceptive narrative sparks a fierce battle among men claiming to possess the real truth about Beethoven. As the investigative American journalist Seiya starts to uncover Schindler's lies, tension escalates. Will Schindler's web of fabrications be exposed, or will his deceit prevail?
'The Fabrication of Beethoven' Overview
- - Title: The Fabrication of Beethoven
- - Release Date: Exclusive streaming starting January 23, 2026
- - Cast: Yuuki Yamada, Shinta Furuta, Masataka Kubota, Kazuki Kaneshiro, Yoshiyuki Ozawa, Katsuhiro Namase, Nobuaki Kote, Toru Nomaguchi, Kaito Inohara, Kenichi Endo, and more.
- - Source: Shiho Kagehara's 'The Fabrication of Beethoven: The Legendary Producer Lies' (Kawade Bunko)
- - Script: Bac-arhythm
- - Director: Kazuhiro Seki
- - Production: Amazon MGM Studios and Shochiku
- - Copyright: ©2025 Amazon Content Services LLC or its Affiliates and Shochiku Co., Ltd.
Please note that streaming content and schedules are subject to change without prior notice. Registration is required to view the series (For more information on Amazon Prime, visit amazon.co.jp/prime).
About Prime Video
Prime Video delivers a vast array of features in one app, accessible on thousands of devices, providing a one-stop entertainment service. Customizable viewing experiences allow customers to discover their preferred movies, dramas, and live content. Prime members can enjoy exclusive Japanese dramas like 'Silent Fleet Season 1 – The Great Battle of Tokyo Bay,' reality shows such as 'Love Transit,' and the 'Bachelor Japan' series, in addition to Western films and international dramas.
Join Amazon Prime to enhance your lifestyle with a range of perks, including swift delivery services and diverse entertainment options, for an annual fee of 5,900 yen (incl. tax) or a monthly fee of 600 yen (incl. tax).