How does a lock of Beethoven’s famously wild hair end up in the hands of Arizona residents Ira Brilliant and Dr. Alfredo “Che” Guevara? Will this hair reveal the secrets of the composer's deafness, volatility and creativity to modern science? Agile, precise and witty, Larry Weinstein’s acclaimed documentary is a consummate musical mystery as two parallel stories of the lock of hair unfold and converge in a surprising conclusion. The long strange trip of this relic through centuries is recounted alongside the decoding of Beethoven’s lifelong illnesses and their effect on his art.

Featuring an exclusive post-screening performance of Beethoven's Sonata Op. 111 by pianist Alexander (Sasha) Malikov, recorded live at the beautiful Koerner Hall, plus a Q&A with director Larry Weinstein.

Presented in partnership with The Royal Conservatory

Music on Film: Now offered on Hot Docs at Home! Enjoy a rotating virtual selection of inspiring music docs, paired with exclusive Q&As and performances curated by The Royal Conservatory, and hosted by Mervon Mehta, Executive Director of Performing Arts.

Tickets: FREE for Hot Docs Members, $6.99 for non-members