Ludwig II: Glanz und Ende eines Königs (Ludwig II - The Splendour and Suffering of a King) is a biographical drama directed by Helmut Käutner, starring O.W. Fischer as the "fairy tale king." It chronicles Ludwig's reign from his 1864 ascension to his mysterious 1886 death, highlighting his patronage of Wagner, expensive castle construction, political disinterest, and growing isolation. The film also touches upon the feelings between him and the Empress of Austria, Elisabeth (known as Sissi), which had to remain unfulfilled (especially since he was gay... a point only hinted at by the film).