Review of Stroszek (1977) by Ryan S — 09 Jun 2007

Herzog is great at creating completely original characters and unique pieces of work, and this is certainly a prime example of this keen ability. Bruno turns in another haunting performance as the title character, who seeks the American dream but finds that it Wisconsin is not the best place for it.

This is summed up in one of Herzog's most brilliant scenes, where Bruno stands alone watching as a trailer is towed away in front of him. The scene lingers a while after the trailer is out of view, furthering the sense of loss and degradation Stroszek is feeling.

Plus, you have to love a director that puts a dancing chicken in at the end of his film, and admits in his commentary that it is a metaphor for something, but he isn't really sure what. A great film.