Review of Aguirre, the Wrath of God (1972) by Panayiotis D — 12 Feb 2013
An incredible epic drama, shot entirely in the Amazon riverland in Peru, based on an actual story of conquest, betrayal and defeat. Klaus Kinski dominates the film and is the perfect choice: a half-mad actor to play a complete lunatic. Werner Herzog's masterpiece which deals with imperial conquest and even its connection with fascism, has deservedly become a classic.
Highlights.
- The opening sequence, with the Spanish expedition descending from the Andes to the jungle through the clouds, in the dreamy soundtrack.
- The final sequence, with Aquirre in his raft, alone, floating down the still river, surrounded by hunders of little monkeys and corpses.
- Kinski's mad performance, mostly by little talk and by posture, eye movement etc. At one point he makes a horse collapse by shouting at it.
- Herzog's method and the whole legend regarding the film's shooting (Herzog and Kinski threatened to kill each other, of course afterwards they collaborated for 4 more projects).
This review of Aguirre, the Wrath of God (1972) was written by Panayiotis D on 12 Feb 2013.
Aguirre, the Wrath of God has generally received very positive reviews.
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