Venice, Italy – Celebrated German Director Werner Herzog, the creative force behind iconic films like “Fitzcarraldo” and “Aguirre, the Wrath of God,” delivered a starkly honest masterclass to budding filmmakers at the Venice film Festival on Thursday. herzog’s message? Success in the film industry often demands a willingness to operate outside conventional boundaries.
The Pragmatic Side of filmmaking
Table of Contents
- 1. The Pragmatic Side of filmmaking
- 2. Navigating Industry Roadblocks
- 3. The Illusion of Independence
- 4. Current and Future Projects
- 5. The Expanding Film Landscape
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions about Werner Herzog and filmmaking
- 7. How can a director utilize “ecstatic truth” to enhance the emotional impact of a scene, even if it deviates from strict factual accuracy?
- 8. Werner Herzog Shares Insights for Aspiring Directors: Embrace Creativity and Authenticity in Filmmaking
- 9. The Herzogian Approach to Storytelling
- 10. Finding your “Ecstatic truth”
- 11. The Importance of Obsession and Planning
- 12. Navigating Production Challenges: Herzog’s Practical Advice
- 13. The Power of Sound and Music in Filmmaking
- 14. Herzog on Editing: Shaping the Narrative
Herzog asserted that aspiring directors must possess a certain level of cunning, stating, “You have to know how to forge a shooting permit in a country with a military dictatorship, how to pick locks.” He continued, emphasizing that filmmaking, at it’s core, requires a willingness to be “a borderline criminal,” and advised those lacking such inclinations to reconsider their career path. This blunt assessment underscores the frequently challenging and unorthodox realities of bringing a vision to the screen.
The discussion wasn’t solely about bending the rules. Herzog also touched upon the obstacles of securing funding, relaying a story about a collaborative project with Francis Ford Coppola in the 1990s. The pair envisioned a large-scale depiction of the Spanish conquest of Mexico, narrated from the Aztec perspective. Despite substantial planning, the project ultimately stalled due to financing issues.
instead of dwelling on setbacks, Herzog revealed his strategy: continuous work. “Instead of trying to push for financing without success for the next twenty years I actually made 28 films and I wrote seven books in that time,” he explained. He suggested that fixating on a single unachieved project is counterproductive, advocating for sustained creative output.
The Illusion of Independence
Herzog challenged the notion of truly “independent cinema,” arguing that all filmmaking is reliant on complex systems. “You are dependent on production systems, you are dependent on distribution. You are dependent on permits,” he stated. Though, he balanced this realism with a call for self-reliance, suggesting filmmakers find ways to generate their own resources-while explicitly discouraging illegal activities.
Current and Future Projects
Herzog is currently showcasing his new documentary, “Ghost Elephants,” at the Venice Film Festival, which follows the search for a rare herd of elephants in Angola. Simultaneously, he is actively engaged in multiple projects, including the filming of “Bucking Fastard” in Ireland, starring Kate and Rooney Mara. Additionally,Herzog is developing an animated adaptation of his novel “The Twilight World” and contributing voice work to an animated film by Bong Joon Ho.
| project | Status | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Ghost Elephants | Premiering at Venice Film Festival | Documentary |
| Bucking Fastard | In Production | Feature Film |
| The Twilight world | In Development | Animated Film |
Herzog concluded by emphasizing his relentless work ethic, stating, “I never stop working and always have more than one project in mind.”
The Expanding Film Landscape
The film industry has dramatically evolved since Herzog began his career in the 1960s. As of 2024, the global film market was valued at approximately $138.27 billion, with projections estimating a rise to $167.83 billion by 2029,according to Statista. this growth is driven by streaming services, international co-productions, and the increasing accessibility of filmmaking technology. Despite these changes, Herzog’s core message about resourcefulness, persistence, and a willingness to push boundaries remains remarkably relevant. The rise of independent platforms and crowdfunding offers new avenues for filmmakers but still demands a similar level of determination and adaptability.
Did You Know? Werner Herzog is known for his unique filming techniques and his willingness to endure hardship for his art. He famously pulled a boat over a mountain in the Amazon rainforest for his film “Fitzcarraldo.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Werner Herzog and filmmaking
- What is Werner Herzog known for? Herzog is a highly acclaimed German filmmaker celebrated for his visually stunning and often challenging films exploring themes of human ambition and the power of nature.
- What is Herzog’s view on independent filmmaking? Herzog believes true cinematic independence is an illusion, as all filmmakers rely on external systems for production and distribution.
- What advice did Herzog give to aspiring filmmakers? He stressed the importance of resourcefulness, a willingness to take risks, and the ability to persevere despite setbacks.
- What are some of Werner Herzog’s most famous films? Some of his most renowned works include “Fitzcarraldo,” “Aguirre, the Wrath of God,” and “Grizzly Man.”
- Is it necessary to be ‘criminal’ to be a filmmaker, according to Herzog? Herzog suggests a degree of unconventional thinking and a willingness to bend rules might potentially be necessary, but cautions against actual criminal activity.
What are your thoughts on Herzog’s perspective? Do you think a degree of risk-taking is essential for success in the film industry?
Share your opinion in the comments below!
How can a director utilize “ecstatic truth” to enhance the emotional impact of a scene, even if it deviates from strict factual accuracy?
The Herzogian Approach to Storytelling
Werner Herzog, the iconic German filmmaker known for his challenging and visually stunning work, offers a wealth of wisdom for aspiring directors. his philosophy isn’t about technical prowess (though that’s vital), but about a fundamental approach to filmmaking rooted in relentless curiosity, embracing chaos, and a commitment to truthful storytelling. This article distills key insights from Herzog’s interviews, masterclasses, and filmmaking career, providing practical guidance for those seeking to forge their own path in autonomous film and beyond. We’ll explore how to cultivate a unique directorial voice, navigate the challenges of production, and ultimately, create films that resonate with audiences.
Finding your “Ecstatic truth”
Herzog frequently speaks of “ecstatic truth” – a concept that goes beyond mere factual accuracy. It’s about capturing the deeper, ofen irrational, realities of human experience.
Embrace Subjectivity: don’t strive for objective reporting.Your perspective is the story. Independant filmmaking thrives on unique viewpoints.
Look Beyond the Surface: Dig deeper than the obvious narrative. What are the underlying anxieties, desires, and contradictions driving your characters?
Don’t Be Afraid of Ambiguity: Life is rarely neat and tidy. Allow for complexity and unanswered questions in your films. This fosters engagement and encourages viewers to interpret the work.
Authenticity Over convention: Reject formulaic storytelling. Prioritize genuine emotional resonance over adhering to genre tropes. This is crucial for building a distinctive filmography.
The Importance of Obsession and Planning
Herzog’s films, from Aguirre, the Wrath of God to fitzcarraldo, are legendary for their logistical challenges and the sheer force of will required to bring them to life. This stems from a deep, almost obsessive, commitment to his vision.
Research as Immersion: Don’t just research your subject; live it. Spend time in the world of your story, observe the people, and absorb the atmosphere.
Detailed Storyboarding & Pre-Visualization: While embracing spontaneity, Herzog emphasizes meticulous pre-production. Detailed storyboards and pre-visualization are essential for managing complex shoots.
Anticipate the Unexpected: Filmmaking is inherently unpredictable. Develop contingency plans, but also be prepared to improvise and adapt.Herzog’s films are often defined by the challenges overcome during production.
Location Scouting as Character Growth: The habitat is a character in itself. Choose locations that amplify the themes and emotions of your story.
Herzog isn’t known for easy shoots. His films frequently enough take place in remote, hostile environments. Here’s how he approaches the practical realities of filmmaking:
Minimalist Filmmaking: Often, limitations breed creativity. Work with what you have, and don’t be afraid to strip away needless elements. Low-budget filmmaking can be incredibly liberating.
Trust Your Crew (But Verify): Surround yourself with skilled and dedicated individuals, but maintain a critical eye.Ensure everyone understands and shares your vision.
Embrace Improvisation (Within Limits): while meticulous planning is crucial, be open to spontaneous moments and unexpected discoveries on set. Some of the most powerful scenes arise from improvisation.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your production process, including footage, notes, and challenges encountered. This will be invaluable during editing.
The Power of Sound and Music in Filmmaking
Herzog places immense importance on sound design and music. He believes they are integral to creating atmosphere and emotional impact.
Sound as Storyteller: Don’t treat sound as an afterthought. Use it to create a sense of place, build tension, and reveal character.
Non-Diegetic Soundscapes: Experiment with abstract and unconventional soundscapes to evoke emotions and create a unique auditory experience.
Music as Emotional Amplifier: Choose music that complements and enhances the emotional tone of your scenes.Avoid clichés and seek out original compositions.
Silence is Golden: Don’t underestimate the power of silence. Strategic pauses can be incredibly effective in creating suspense and drawing the audience in.
Herzog on Editing: Shaping the Narrative
Herzog views editing as a crucial stage in the filmmaking process, where the story truly takes shape.
Ruthless Editing: Be willing to cut scenes, even those you love, if they don’t serve the overall narrative.
Pacing and Rhythm: Pay attention to the pacing and rhythm of your film.Vary the length of shots and scenes to create a dynamic and engaging experience.
Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately,editing is a subjective process. Trust your gut and make choices that feel right for your film.
The Importance of a Good Editor: Collaborate with an editor who understands
