Review of Encounters at the End of the World (2007) by Hung-Ya L — 14 May 2010
The simple plot summary of the film may slightly mislead, as it offers promises of the documentary being of "pure science". But Mr. Herzog being in the directorial chair, there's no doubt there's some twitching of imagery and facts to be used for some artistic storytelling.
Herzog is not that inclined to dig up some obscure, labyrinthine scientific facts, but he instead ventured into Antarctica with existential questions in his hands, hoping not just be answered by the devoted experts in the continent, but by also a way of self-discovery.
It was a beautiful picture, but not literally, it is by way playing along the lines of authentic picturesque landscapes of Antarctica and the trademark aching beauty of Herzogian images. The camera is partly used to bear witness to the science eccentrics risking their lives for the sake of more science, and partly as an unblemished, hovering guide to the sheer, unorthodox beauty of unknown territories in the icy corners of Antarctica.
Yet another achievement by Werner Herzog, one of the best filmmakers of all time.
This review of Encounters at the End of the World (2007) was written by Hung-Ya L on 14 May 2010.
Encounters at the End of the World has generally received very positive reviews.
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