External resistance to his person and his work, experiences with National Socialism and war, internal conflicts as a homosexual musician, and even public attacks: all these were formative experiences that made Hans Werner Henze Germany's most political composer.

External resistance to his person and his work, experiences with National Socialism and war, internal conflicts as a homosexual musician, and even public attacks: all these were formative experiences that made Hans Werner Henze Germany's most political composer. At the same time, with his urbane demeanour, elegant clothing and villa near Rome, he was the epitome of a dandy and bon vivant. He shattered views and preconceptions in both musical and social terms. On the occasion of his 100th birthday in July 2026, this documentary makes the relevance of his music audible and visible – including previously unreleased compositions and documents by Hans Werner Henze.

Contemporary witnesses, students, companions and friends of Hans Werner Henze have their say in the film. They include Ian Bostridge, Jörg Widmann, Barrie Kosky, Michael Kerstan, Riccardo Panfili, Camilla Nylund and Edda Moser.