Review of Fitzcarraldo (1982) by Richard C — 13 Apr 2007

Fitzgerald (Kinski) plans to sail a huge steamboat up the Amazon and then drag it over a very large hill. Why I hear you ask? Well firstly, due to its geographical isolation, the area contains a large reserve of untapped rubber trees which he hopes to exploit. Secondly, as a lover of opera he plans to bring the sounds of the stage to the wild and untamed jungle territories. Thirdly, and probably the most attributing factor, he is a borderline psychotic and won't let anyone or anything stand in his way.

Driven by an immense performance by Kinksi and stunning cinematography from Thomas Mauch, Fitzcarraldo builds on the insanity of Herzog's earlier films like "Aguirre, The Wrath of God". The exploits of the director and leading actor are well documented and this intense, ego driven rivalry transfers directly to the screen. Fans of Herzog will no doubt lap up the film's sheer eccentricity and outrageous plot but those of a more mainstream disposition will no doubt be bored to tears by the slow pace and heavy emphasis on visual narrative. I highly recommend viewing this unique cinematic feat.