Review of Burden of Dreams (1982) by Tina C — 26 Jun 2011

I've always been a fan of Werner Herzog and his films, but it's absolutely fascinating to see a film that explores his obsession and passionate filmmaking. While Fitzcarraldo has never been one of my favourite Herzog films, I almost feel like watching it again after seeing that.

In many ways this film is a journey into the heart of an immense darkness (at least Herzog sees it that way; in a memorable scene, he contrasts Kinski's interpretation of an "erotic jungle" with one that is chaotic and fornicating, and then documentary director Les Blank contrasts it further with shots of the serene wildlife.

Perhaps the beauty of nature is a facade for the chaos within, but the chemistry between the directors is fascinating), and yet it is also a triumph of the will. Herzog painstakingly overcomes the obstacles which hinder the production of his films, which include an extensive dry season, agitated Natives, sick actors and governmental conflicts, among other things.

While I would have been interested to have seen the original Fitzcarraldo that Herzog had intended (with Jason Robards and Mick Jagger), Burden of Dreams is so introspective and philosophical in its scope that I'm glad that Fitzcarraldo turned out the way it did.