Review of Into the Abyss (2011) by Zander S — 29 Jan 2012
Into The Abyss is another entry of films for German director, Werner Herzog. It is one of Herzog's darkest, saddest films but still seems to find glimmers of hope and universal truths, a trait found in Herzogs' films.
I will admit that at first I was caught up in the logistics and complications of the story unraveling with the murders and the response of capital punishment. Many questions were left unanswered. But after the film I found myself meditating on many ideas and questions of the film.
Herzog lets the audience come to the answer themselves. Into the Abyss where no answers are found; if you go deep enough into darkness and ask questions of morality, logic and understanding there are no exact right answers.
The film is dark and ominous, and at the heart of a tragic story lay questions about the ethics behind capital punishment and what it means to take a life. One of Herzog's first films where he expresses a desire for something to change, perhaps taking inspiration from his friend and fellow filmmaker Errol Morris.
I can only hope that capital punishment is reconsidered and possibly changed after viewing this film. This was another powerful entry for Mr. Herzog, one that will stick with you and make you ask questions.
If you can trudge through the dark subject matter, I strongly recommend seeing this film.
This review of Into the Abyss (2011) was written by Zander S on 29 Jan 2012.
Into the Abyss has generally received positive reviews.
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