A compelling portrait of an artist obsessed, this documentary follows German auteur Werner Herzog as he deals with difficult actors, bad weather and getting a boat over a mountain, all in an effort to make a film.
German director Werner Herzog begins work on his 1982 epic ‘Fitzcarraldo’ (also screening this week) but soon runs into serious setbacks, from casting problems to his own stubborn refusal to use special effects. After having to reshoot much of the film because the lead actor was recast, his crew must then haul an old steamboat over a mountain using manpower alone. With a resolve bordering on insanity, Herzog struggles to realize his vision, vowing to see the film completed - even if it leads to his undoing. Critics consider this one of the best – if not the best – documentaries on the making of a film. (Subtitles)
USA/West Germany 1982 Les Blank 95m