A new documentary titled “Bernstein’s Wall,” directed by Douglas Tirola, offers an in-depth look at the social activism and multifaceted career of Leonard Bernstein, the renowned conductor, composer, and Boston native. The film is primarily composed of Bernstein’s own words from interviews conducted in the 1960s and 1970s, supplemented by reenactments of letters exchanged with his wife, Felicia, and his mentor, Aaron Copland. The documentary also incorporates rare commentary from others discussing Bernstein’s work, including his theatrical composition “Mass,” created for the dedication of the Kennedy Center in 1961.

Structured like a musical score, the documentary interweaves historical context with Bernstein’s reflections on his life and beliefs. It traces his career from his unexpected debut as guest conductor of the New York Philharmonic at age 25 in 1943 to his symbolic performance in East Berlin on Christmas Day 1989, celebrating the fall of the Berlin Wall. At that concert, Bernstein notably replaced the word “joy” (“Freude”) with “freedom” (“Freiheit”) in Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” to mark Germany’s reunification.

“Bernstein’s Wall” emphasizes Bernstein’s lifelong commitment to activism over his numerous professional accolades. While the documentary briefly mentions his achievements and awards—including 16 Grammys, seven Emmys, two Tonys, and an Oscar nomination—it focuses more on his outspoken opposition to issues such as McCarthyism, civil rights abuses, political corruption, and unjust wars. Footage from the 1963 March on Washington and Bernstein’s personal experiences with the Hollywood blacklist are included to highlight his political engagement. The film also addresses the challenges Bernstein faced as a Jewish American composer and his resistance to pressures to assimilate, such as refusing to alter his surname.

The documentary does not shy away from exploring Bernstein’s sexuality, featuring letters exchanged between Bernstein and Copland that reveal their intimate relationship. A candid letter from Felicia Bernstein to her husband reflects on his sexuality and the complexities of their marriage. Bernstein’s personal struggles are presented alongside his artistic passions, portraying a man deeply committed to both his music and his social causes.

Bernstein’s dynamic conducting style is vividly captured with footage showing his intense physical engagement with music, displaying the emotional intensity that characterized his performances. The documentary concludes with a tribute to Bernstein’s enduring legacy as a musician and activist.

“Bernstein’s Wall” has recently become available at the Coolidge, several years after its initial debut at the Chicago Critics Film Festival in 2021, and is being recognized as an informative and compelling portrait of Bernstein’s life beyond his music.