Richard Wagner – Lord of the Ring (Documentary)

Accentus Music presents Richard Wagner – Lord of the Ring, a documentary exploring the legacy, controversies and cultural impact of Wagner’s masterpiece.

Accentus Music is proud to announce the upcoming production of Richard Wagner – Lord of the Ring, a captivating documentary that embarks on an insightful journey into the world of Wagner’s monumental opera cycle. From its origins in 1848 when Wagner began writing the libretto to the world premiere in Bayreuth in 1876, the "Ring craze" in France at the turn of the century, from star performers to eccentric fans, from historical appropriations to modern-day controversies, the film explores every facet of this iconic work.

Composed between 1848 and 1874, Wagner’s Ring des Nibelungen is the most ambitious operatic works ever created. With a total runtime of approximately 16 hours, an orchestra of over 100 musicians, and a large cast of singers, it remains unparalleled in its scale and influence. Rooted in the medieval Nibelungenlied, the saga of Siegfried and the cursed ring has long transcended opera, finding its way into pop culture, from film and comics to video games.

The documentary delves into the essence of the Ring and the man behind it. What inspired Wagner? How has the perception of his work evolved? How does Wagner’s Ring continue to captivate audiences even after 150 years while simultaneously unsettling them with its occasional controversies? Through expert insights and rare archival footage, the film paints a comprehensive portrait of this masterpiece.

Join us as we explore the legend, the myth, and the enduring power of Wagner’s Ring.

Completion by May 2026

English title Richard Wagner - Lord of the Ring
Production Company Accentus Music GmbH
Co-Production Company WDR/Arte