On first viewing one is entirely transfixed by Kinski in this articulate and emotive documentary by Werner Herzog.Without doubt,Klaus Kinski was one of the most powerful actors of all time,and his off-screen persona is compelling too.This magnificent film examines both Kinski's considerable talent and his impossibilities as a human being.
All this is done entirely with regard to Herzog's fascinating relationship with the man,so this is NOT a biography of Kinski.
The truly astonishing aspect of this film however is Herzog himself.What a noble tribute this film is;Herzog is clearly a Director that holds actors in the highest esteem.Yet it is Werner Herzog's brushes with Kinski-esque insanity that make this such compelling viewing.His admission that he has never dared read his own (unpublished) memoirs,is an astonishing insight into his life.
Surely now Werner Herzog must publish his memoirs,so that we all can learn more of his,and Kinski's,extraordinary lives.
All this is done entirely with regard to Herzog's fascinating relationship with the man,so this is NOT a biography of Kinski.
The truly astonishing aspect of this film however is Herzog himself.What a noble tribute this film is;Herzog is clearly a Director that holds actors in the highest esteem.Yet it is Werner Herzog's brushes with Kinski-esque insanity that make this such compelling viewing.His admission that he has never dared read his own (unpublished) memoirs,is an astonishing insight into his life.
Surely now Werner Herzog must publish his memoirs,so that we all can learn more of his,and Kinski's,extraordinary lives.