Best Werner Herzog Films: 29 Werner Herzog Movies You Need To See

Werner Herzog is a fantastic filmmaker who’s brought many brilliant films to screens all over the world.

In this article, we list what we believe to be the best Werner Herzog films.

Herzog has produced screen magic with Fitzcarraldo, Grizzly Man and Aguirre, the Wrath of God, among many others.

So whether you’re doing research on him, or ready to sit down and watch one of these movies tonight, this list of the top Werner Herzog films will be just what you need!

It should be noted that we’ve included the films in a rough ranking order. But with a filmmaker like Werner Herzog, the work is so good that it’s really hard to form an exact order.

So, without further ado, let’s jump right in and list the best Werner Herzog films!

The Best Werner Herzog Films

Let’s start off with an absolute cinema classic, Aguirre the Wrath of God.

Aguirre, the Wrath of God

Aguirre, the Wrath of God is a historical drama film directed by Werner Herzog and released in 1972.

The film tells the story of the Spanish conquistador Lope de Aguirre, who in the 16th century led an expedition of Spanish soldiers and natives down the Amazon River in search of the legendary city of gold, El Dorado.

The film stars Klaus Kinski in the titular role, alongside a cast of mostly non-professional actors.

The movie was shot on location in the Amazon rainforest, giving it an authentic and visceral feel.

Aguirre, the Wrath of God is a powerful and intense film that explores the themes of greed, ambition, and the destructive nature of power.

The story is presented in a straightforward and unflinching manner, with little dialogue and a focus on visual storytelling.

The film’s stark black and white photography, haunting musical score, and striking use of natural sound create an atmosphere of unease and foreboding.

The cinematography is particularly notable, with Herzog’s use of handheld cameras and long takes giving the film a sense of immediacy and intimacy.

At the heart of the film is Klaus Kinski’s tour-de-force performance as Aguirre, a man consumed by his desire for power and wealth.

Kinski’s portrayal is intense, wild, and utterly unforgettable, making Aguirre one of the most memorable and iconic characters in cinema history.

 

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Grizzly Man

Grizzly Man is a documentary directed by Werner Herzog that explores the life and death of Timothy Treadwell, a bear enthusiast who spent 13 summers living among the grizzly bears in the Alaskan wilderness.

Through Treadwell’s own footage and interviews with those who knew him, the film delves into the psyche of a man who was deeply passionate about these majestic animals, but ultimately met a tragic end at their claws.

The film presents a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationship between humans and nature.

It raises important questions about the limits of human understanding and the dangers of unchecked passion and obsession.

Herzog’s direction is masterful, as he weaves together Treadwell’s footage with his own narration and interviews to create a captivating and haunting portrait of a man and the world he inhabited.

The film is both beautiful and unsettling, and it leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.

Overall, Grizzly Man is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that explores the relationship between humans and the natural world, and the fine line between admiration and obsession.

It is a must-see for anyone interested in the complexities of human nature and our place in the world around us.

 

 

 

Fitzcarraldo

Fitzcarraldo is a adventure-drama film directed by Werner Herzog and stars Klaus Kinski as the titular character, Brian Sweeney Fitzgerald, a man who dreams of building an opera house in the middle of the Peruvian jungle.

The film is set in the early 20th century and is loosely based on the true story of Carlos Fitzcarrald, an Irish rubber baron who attempted to transport a steamship over a mountain.

The story follows Fitzcarraldo as he navigates the treacherous and often violent world of the Peruvian rubber trade, where he becomes obsessed with the idea of bringing European culture to the jungle.

He hatches a plan to transport a massive steamship over a mountain in order to gain access to a lucrative area of unexplored rubber trees.

In order to accomplish this, he enlists the help of a team of native laborers, as well as his lover, Molly, played by Claudia Cardinale.

The film is known for its stunning cinematography, which captures the rugged beauty of the Peruvian jungle and the massive steamship as it makes its way up the mountain.

The film is also notable for its use of actual native laborers in the scenes depicting the steamship being hauled up the mountain, as well as for the intense on-set conflicts between Herzog and Kinski.

Fitzcarraldo is a deeply strange and mesmerizing film, driven by the force of Kinski’s performance and Herzog’s singular vision.

It explores themes of obsession, colonialism, and the clash of cultures, and features some of the most memorable and visually striking scenes in Herzog’s oeuvre.

For fans of Herzog and adventurous cinema, Fitzcarraldo is an essential viewing experience.

 

Encounters at the End of the World

Encounters at the End of the World is a documentary film directed by Werner Herzog that explores life in the isolated community of McMurdo Station in Antarctica.

The film features interviews with various inhabitants of the station, including scientists, support staff, and oddball adventurers, who are all drawn to this remote and extreme location for different reasons.

Herzog’s documentary is not a typical nature film or travelogue, as it delves deep into the psychological and philosophical aspects of human existence in such an isolated and harsh environment.

Herzog often asks his subjects thought-provoking questions that challenge their beliefs and preconceptions, leading to insightful and sometimes humorous conversations.

The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking shots of the Antarctic landscape and its wildlife, from tiny microbes to massive ice formations.

The sound design is equally impressive, with Herzog’s voiceover providing poetic narration over the hauntingly beautiful ambient soundtrack.

Encounters at the End of the World is a fascinating and thought-provoking documentary that offers a unique perspective on human nature and our relationship with the natural world.

It’s a testament to Herzog’s talent as a filmmaker and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience in even the most extreme environments.

 

Little Dieter Needs to Fly

“Little Dieter Needs to Fly” is a documentary film directed by Werner Herzog that tells the story of Dieter Dengler, a German-American fighter pilot who was shot down and captured during the Vietnam War.

The film uses interviews with Dengler, archival footage, and reenactments to explore his experiences as a prisoner of war and his subsequent escape from captivity.

Herzog is known for his unique approach to documentary filmmaking, and “Little Dieter Needs to Fly” is no exception.

The film blurs the line between fact and fiction, using reenactments and dream sequences to recreate Dengler’s memories and experiences.

The film is a powerful exploration of the psychological effects of war, as well as a testament to the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of adversity.

Herzog’s direction is masterful, creating a tense and dramatic atmosphere that keeps the viewer engaged throughout.

While “Little Dieter Needs to Fly” is a challenging film, it is ultimately a rewarding and thought-provoking viewing experience.

Herzog’s unorthodox approach to documentary filmmaking adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

 

Where the Green Ants Dream

“Where the Green Ants Dream” is a 1984 film by German director Werner Herzog.

The movie tells the story of a mining company trying to exploit a sacred Aboriginal site in the Australian Outback.

The company believes that there are valuable minerals beneath the site, but the Aboriginals claim that the site is home to the green ants, whose dream is the source of all life.

The film follows the legal battle between the mining company and the Aboriginals, and the clash of cultures between the two groups.

Herzog’s documentary-style approach to the story highlights the conflicting values and worldviews of the two groups.

The film also touches on themes of environmentalism, spirituality, and colonialism.

Herzog’s direction and cinematography create a haunting and otherworldly atmosphere, with sweeping shots of the Australian landscape and close-ups of the green ants.

The film also features a powerful score by composer Maurice Jarre.

“Where the Green Ants Dream” is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that explores the clash of cultures and the consequences of environmental exploitation.

It is a must-see for fans of Herzog’s work, as well as those interested in the cultural and environmental issues at the heart of the film.

 

 

 

Nosferatu the Vampyre

“Nosferatu the Vampyre” is a horror film directed by Werner Herzog and starring Klaus Kinski.

The film is a remake of the 1922 silent film “Nosferatu,” which was an unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker’s novel “Dracula.”

In Herzog’s version, the story is set in 19th-century Germany and follows the journey of Jonathan Harker, a real estate agent who travels to Transylvania to sell a house to the mysterious Count Dracula.

However, as Harker soon realizes, Dracula is a vampire, and he is slowly being drained of his blood.

As Harker tries to escape from Dracula’s castle, he is aided by a group of villagers, including Lucy, who is the wife of his best friend, Renfield.

Lucy becomes the focus of Dracula’s attention, and he sets his sights on turning her into a vampire.

Meanwhile, Harker seeks the help of vampire hunter Van Helsing, and the two men team up to try to destroy Dracula and save Lucy.

The film is a haunting and atmospheric take on the classic vampire story, with stunning cinematography and a chilling performance by Klaus Kinski as Dracula.

Herzog’s direction is masterful, creating a sense of dread and foreboding throughout the film.

The score, composed by Popol Vuh, adds to the eerie atmosphere of the movie.

The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser

“The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser,” also known as “Every Man for Himself and God Against All,” is a 1974 German film directed by Werner Herzog.

It tells the true story of a mysterious young man named Kaspar Hauser who appeared in Nuremberg, Germany, in 1828 with no memory of his past and limited ability to communicate.

The film explores the reactions of the townspeople and authorities to Kaspar’s presence, as well as his own struggles to understand the world around him.

Herzog’s film is a haunting and enigmatic portrait of a man trying to make sense of a world that is incomprehensible to him.

The film’s pace is slow and deliberate, with Herzog using long takes and sparse dialogue to create a sense of isolation and otherness around Kaspar.

Bruno S., who plays Kaspar, gives a powerful and nuanced performance, conveying the character’s confusion and vulnerability with subtlety and grace.

Through its exploration of Kaspar’s story, the film also touches on larger themes of identity, language, and power.

Kaspar’s struggle to communicate is a metaphor for the difficulties of connecting with others, while the authorities’ attempts to control and exploit him highlight the dangers of a world where those in power can dictate the reality of those who are marginalized.

 

My Best Fiend

My Best Fiend is a documentary film directed by the acclaimed German filmmaker Werner Herzog.

The film is an intimate portrait of Herzog’s tumultuous relationship with the late actor Klaus Kinski, with whom he collaborated on five feature films.

My Best Fiend provides a behind-the-scenes look at the complex dynamics between the two artists, showcasing Kinski’s volatile and unpredictable behavior on set as well as his intense on-screen performances.

The film also delves into their personal relationship, highlighting Kinski’s obsession with Herzog and their frequent clashes both on and off set.

Through a mix of archival footage, interviews, and personal anecdotes, Herzog paints a complex portrait of his troubled but deeply creative collaborator.

The film explores themes of artistry, obsession, and the limits of creative partnerships, providing a fascinating glimpse into the minds of two of the most iconic figures in German cinema.

My Best Fiend is a must-see for fans of Herzog and Kinski, as well as anyone interested in the creative process and the power of artistic collaboration.

It is a deeply personal and reflective film that sheds light on one of the most fascinating artistic relationships of the 20th century.

 

Land of Silence and Darkness

Land of Silence and Darkness is a documentary film directed by Werner Herzog that follows the life of Fini Straubinger, a woman who is both deaf and blind.

The film explores the challenges that Fini faces in her daily life, as well as her work as an advocate for the deaf-blind community.

Herzog’s compassionate and insightful approach to documenting Fini’s life is truly remarkable, and the film serves as a powerful tribute to her indomitable spirit.

Land of Silence and Darkness is not just a portrait of one individual, but also a wider exploration of the human condition and our relationship to the world around us.

As with many of Herzog’s films, Land of Silence and Darkness is a deeply personal work that reflects his own preoccupations and obsessions.

The director’s unique voice and vision are evident throughout the film, as he offers a moving and thought-provoking meditation on what it means to be human.

This is an essential film for anyone interested in the work of one of the great auteurs of modern cinema, and a testament to the power of documentary film to capture the richness and complexity of the human experience.

 

 

Stroszek

Stroszek is a film directed by Werner Herzog.

The movie tells the story of Bruno Stroszek, a German ex-con who has just been released from prison. Stroszek is a sad and lonely man, with no real family or friends to speak of.

He is also a bit of a dreamer, with an active imagination that takes him to faraway places in his mind.

After his release from prison, Stroszek moves in with an elderly neighbor, Frau Elsa, who is kind to him and offers him a place to stay.

Stroszek then meets Eva, a prostitute who lives in the same apartment building, and the two begin a relationship.

Stroszek and Eva decide to leave Germany and start a new life in America. They are joined by Stroszek’s eccentric friend Scheitz, and the three of them set out on a journey to Wisconsin.

The trio faces many challenges along the way, including financial difficulties and cultural differences.

Once in America, the trio struggles to adapt to their new surroundings. Stroszek purchases a used mobile home and tries to make a living selling wooden ducks.

Eva tries to make a living as a waitress, while Scheitz attempts to become a country singer.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that Stroszek’s dreams of a better life in America are doomed to fail.

The characters’ struggles with poverty and isolation are depicted with bleak and often absurdist humor.

Stroszek is a powerful and affecting film that explores the themes of poverty, loneliness, and the American Dream.

The film’s mix of comedy and tragedy, along with Herzog’s distinctive visual style, make it a must-see for fans of independent cinema.

 

Cobra Verde

“Cobra Verde” is a film directed by Werner Herzog, starring Klaus Kinski in his final collaboration with the director.

The film tells the story of a bandit named Francisco Manoel da Silva (Kinski) who is hired by a plantation owner to bring African slaves to Brazil.

When his employer betrays him, Cobra Verde seeks revenge by leading a slave revolt.

The film is an adaptation of the novel “The Viceroy of Ouidah” by Bruce Chatwin, and like many of Herzog’s films, it blurs the line between reality and fiction.

Kinski’s intense and often unpredictable performance is a highlight, as is the striking cinematography by Thomas Mauch.

The film received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics praising its visual style and Kinski’s performance, while others found it slow and indulgent.

However, “Cobra Verde” has since gained a cult following and is considered a key work in Herzog’s filmography, particularly for its themes of colonialism and the clash of cultures.

 

 

Even Dwarfs Started Small

Even Dwarfs Started Small is a experimental film directed by German filmmaker Werner Herzog.

The movie is set in a remote institution, where a group of dwarfs stage a rebellion against the authorities.

Shot in black and white and featuring non-professional actors, the film is known for its surreal, absurdist tone and its exploration of themes such as power, control, and rebellion.

The film follows a group of dwarfs living in an institution, where they are mistreated and subjected to harsh conditions.

As tensions rise, the dwarfs decide to stage a rebellion against their captors, wreaking havoc on the institution and the surrounding area.

The film’s surreal and darkly humorous tone creates a disturbing, dreamlike atmosphere that is both unsettling and captivating.

Herzog’s approach to the material is unorthodox, using a mix of surreal imagery, allegorical themes, and a loose narrative structure to create a compelling and thought-provoking work.

The film’s unconventional style has made it a cult classic, and its exploration of themes such as power, control, and the human condition make it a thought-provoking and haunting viewing experience.

If you’re a fan of experimental cinema, or interested in exploring the work of Werner Herzog, Even Dwarfs Started Small is a must-see.

 

 

 

Heart of Glass

“Heart of Glass” is a German film directed by Werner Herzog, known for its surreal and dreamlike storytelling, stunning cinematography, and hypnotic soundtrack.

The film takes place in a small Bavarian village, where the residents’ lives are upended when the owner of a local glass factory, the only source of employment in the area, dies.

The factory workers fall into a trance-like state, and the village’s fortunes take a turn for the worse.

The film is notable for its unconventional production methods, as Herzog reportedly hypnotized the actors to create the dreamlike performances, and even the cameraman, who captured the stunningly beautiful, hauntingly otherworldly imagery on film.

While not a film for everyone, “Heart of Glass” is a masterclass in unconventional filmmaking, using surrealism and hypnotism to create a unique and powerful cinematic experience.

The film’s themes of loss, decay, and transformation are conveyed through Herzog’s distinctive visual and aural style, leaving a lasting impression on viewers who are open to its unconventional storytelling methods.

Lessons of Darkness

Lessons of Darkness is a documentary film by German director Werner Herzog that provides a haunting and surreal view of the aftermath of the 1991 Gulf War.

The film’s title is taken from the opening lines of the Tao Te Ching, and Herzog uses a poetic and metaphysical lens to explore the devastation of the Kuwaiti oil fields following the conflict.

The film is shot in a highly stylized way, with Herzog’s camera capturing vast landscapes of fire and smoke, evoking the apocalyptic imagery of a nightmare.

Herzog’s camera movements and compositions are highly deliberate, creating an almost otherworldly vision of the destroyed oil fields.

The film is shot in widescreen, and the imagery is often breathtaking, with the fiery landscapes almost becoming abstract paintings.

Lessons of Darkness is not a traditional documentary in that it features no voiceover, interviews, or explanations.

Instead, Herzog allows the images to speak for themselves, with the soundtrack featuring a haunting score by composer Ernst Reijseger.

The result is an abstract meditation on the consequences of war and the destructive power of humankind.

While the film’s abstract style may not be for everyone, those who are willing to engage with it will be rewarded with a deeply moving and thought-provoking experience.

Lessons of Darkness is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases Herzog’s skill as a filmmaker and his ability to explore the human condition through the power of imagery.

 

Cave of Forgotten Dreams

Cave of Forgotten Dreams is a documentary film directed by Werner Herzog, which explores the Chauvet-Pont-d’Arc Cave in southern France.

The cave contains some of the oldest known cave paintings in the world, dating back over 30,000 years.

The film takes viewers on a journey deep inside the cave, where they are able to see the stunning, ancient artwork up close.

Herzog interviews scientists and archaeologists who are studying the cave and its paintings, and delves into the history and significance of the artwork.

The film is shot in 3D, which allows viewers to experience the cave in a more immersive and realistic way.

Herzog uses the technology to highlight the contours and textures of the cave walls, as well as to create a sense of depth and perspective.

 

 

The White Diamond

“The White Diamond” is a documentary film by renowned filmmaker Werner Herzog.

The film explores the journey of Graham Dorrington, a British engineer and inventor, as he designs and builds a flying airship.

The airship is shaped like a diamond and is equipped with a camera to capture aerial footage of the Guyana rainforest.

Herzog follows Dorrington and his team as they navigate through the treacherous rainforest terrain, testing the airship and gathering footage. Throughout the film, Herzog raises philosophical questions about the human desire to conquer nature and the consequences of such endeavors.

In classic Herzog fashion, the film is visually stunning and provides an intimate portrayal of Dorrington and his team as they face challenges and obstacles.

The filmmaker’s distinct voiceover narration adds depth and contemplation to the journey, which is both fascinating and thought-provoking.

Overall, “The White Diamond” is a must-watch for Herzog fans and anyone interested in engineering, nature, and the intersection of the two.

The film offers a unique perspective on the human condition and the never-ending quest for discovery and adventure.

 

Signs of Life

Signs of Life is a haunting and surreal drama film directed by the legendary German filmmaker Werner Herzog, marking his feature film directorial debut.

The film tells the story of a group of soldiers stationed on a remote Greek island during World War II.

The lead character is a German soldier named Stroszek (Peter Brogle) who becomes increasingly disturbed by the monotony and isolation of his post, leading him to unravel mentally and engage in a series of bizarre and dangerous behaviors.

The film is a striking example of Herzog’s unique style, marked by his fascination with the mysteries of the natural world and human consciousness.

The stunning black-and-white cinematography by Thomas Mauch perfectly captures the rugged and otherworldly landscape of the island, and the sparse and evocative musical score by Jorg Schmidt-Reitwein heightens the film’s dreamlike and eerie atmosphere.

Despite its unsettling subject matter, Signs of Life is a deeply humanistic work, exploring the limits of human endurance and the fine line between sanity and madness.

Brogle delivers a stunning performance as the unraveling soldier, and Herzog’s unflinching direction provides an unforgettably powerful and haunting viewing experience.

Overall, Signs of Life is a powerful and evocative film, marking the emergence of one of the greatest and most distinctive voices in world cinema.

It remains a vital and unforgettable work of art that speaks to the complexities and contradictions of the human condition.

 

Woyzeck

Woyzeck is a 1979 German drama film directed by Werner Herzog and based on the unfinished play “Woyzeck” by Georg Büchner.

The film stars Klaus Kinski as Franz Woyzeck, a hapless soldier who is constantly tormented by those around him.

Woyzeck is a poor and uneducated soldier who is subjected to cruel medical experiments and tormented by his captain, the doctor, and his own lover.

As a result of the constant mental and physical abuse, Woyzeck slowly loses his grip on reality and becomes increasingly violent.

Kinski delivers a powerful performance as the tortured Woyzeck, capturing the character’s descent into madness with raw emotion and intensity.

The film’s haunting score and stark visuals create a bleak and oppressive atmosphere that adds to the sense of hopelessness and despair.

As with many of Herzog’s films, Woyzeck explores the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of societal oppression.

The film is a haunting and powerful portrait of a man pushed to the brink of insanity by a callous and uncaring world.

 

Wheel of Time

“Wheel of Time” is a documentary film directed by Werner Herzog that explores the spiritual practices of Buddhism through the eyes of its followers.

The film is an intriguing blend of travelogue, meditation on life and death, and ethnographic study.

It takes viewers on a journey across the world, from Bodh Gaya in India to the foothills of the Himalayas in Bhutan, showcasing various Buddhist ceremonies and rituals, including the sacred Kalachakra initiation.

As with many of Herzog’s films, “Wheel of Time” is not simply a documentary about its subject matter, but a meditation on the human condition.

Herzog uses his signature blend of poetry and philosophy to explore deeper themes like life, death, and the quest for meaning.

Along the way, he meets a variety of people, from holy men to everyday practitioners, and captures their beliefs and practices with a sense of reverence and curiosity.

The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking shots of the Himalayan landscape and intimate moments of people’s lives.

The film is also accompanied by a haunting soundtrack that adds to its meditative quality. “Wheel of Time” is a fascinating journey through a different way of life, offering a unique perspective on the world and our place within it.

 

 

Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices

“Gesualdo: Death for Five Voices” is a 1995 documentary film by Werner Herzog about the life and music of the Italian composer, Carlo Gesualdo.

The film explores the composer’s controversial and troubled life, his innovative musical style, and his legacy as an artist.

Herzog paints a picture of Gesualdo as a complex and enigmatic figure, whose life was characterized by tragedy and scandal.

The film explores Gesualdo’s personal life, including his abusive marriage and the murders of his wife and her lover, as well as his unconventional musical style, which drew inspiration from the madrigal form and pushed the boundaries of traditional music.

With interviews from musicologists, historians, and musicians, Herzog delves deep into Gesualdo’s music, exploring the innovative techniques that made him such a unique and groundbreaking composer.

The film also features stunning performances of Gesualdo’s music, highlighting the complexity and beauty of his work.

 

 

The Wild Blue Yonder

“The Wild Blue Yonder” is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film directed by Werner Herzog.

The film combines documentary footage of NASA missions and the natural world with fictional elements, resulting in a unique and surreal viewing experience.

The film explores the concept of extraterrestrial life and the possibility of colonizing other planets.

In it, an extraterrestrial being (played by Brad Dourif) reflects on the state of Earth and the human race. Dourif’s character provides a fascinating perspective on human behavior and the state of our planet.

The film is visually striking, with stunning footage of the natural world and the universe. Herzog’s use of underwater footage adds an ethereal quality to the film.

The score by Ernst Reijseger is haunting and beautiful, adding to the film’s dreamlike quality.

 

Rescue Dawn

“Lost Highway” is a surrealistic thriller film directed by David Lynch and released in 1997.

The movie tells the story of Fred Madison (Bill Pullman), a jazz musician who starts to experience strange and disturbing occurrences in his life.

He becomes convinced that his wife Renee (Patricia Arquette) is having an affair and his life starts to spiral out of control.

The film is known for its non-linear narrative and dreamlike sequences that blur the line between reality and fantasy.

As the story unfolds, the audience is led through a labyrinthine plot that raises questions about identity, memory, and the nature of reality.

Visually, “Lost Highway” is a stunning film, with Lynch’s signature use of light and shadow to create an eerie and unsettling atmosphere.

The film is also notable for its use of music, which plays a significant role in the story and helps to create an ominous mood.

The performances in “Lost Highway” are exceptional, with Pullman and Arquette delivering nuanced and layered performances that capture the film’s unsettling tone.

The supporting cast is also strong, with notable appearances from Robert Blake, Balthazar Getty, and Richard Pryor.

 

Happy People: A Year in the Taiga

“Happy People: A Year in the Taiga” is a 2010 documentary film directed by renowned filmmaker Werner Herzog and Dmitry Vasyukov.

The film takes viewers on a fascinating journey into the remote region of Siberia and captures the lives of the people who inhabit it.

The documentary focuses on a group of trappers who live in the vast taiga wilderness of Siberia, in a small village that is only accessible by helicopter or boat.

The film showcases their daily routines and the hardships they face, as they live and work in isolation, with no modern amenities.

The trappers go about their daily activities, including building their own homes, hunting, and fishing, all while battling the harsh climate and wild animals.

Through breathtaking visuals, Herzog and Vasyukov explore the natural beauty of the region and its surroundings, giving viewers a sense of the unique and incredible environment in which these people live.

The film is a celebration of the human spirit and the resilience of those who live in one of the most inhospitable regions of the world.

 

 

Lo and Behold: Reveries of the Connected World 

“Lo and Behold: Reveries of the Connected World” is a 2016 documentary film directed by Werner Herzog.

The film explores the impact of the internet and technology on human society and the future of humanity.

The documentary is divided into ten chapters, each of which explores a different aspect of the internet and its effect on our lives.

The first chapter, “The Early Days,” looks at the history of the internet, its development, and its pioneers.

Herzog interviews a number of experts and thinkers who share their views on the internet’s potential for good and evil.

The second chapter, “The Glory of the Net,” focuses on the benefits of the internet, such as communication, education, and the dissemination of knowledge.

The third chapter, “The Dark Side,” delves into the negative aspects of the internet, such as cyberbullying, hacking, and privacy concerns.

The fourth chapter, “Life Without the Net,” imagines what life would be like without the internet.

The fifth chapter, “The End of the Net,” looks at the potential dangers of the internet, such as solar flares, hacking, and the vulnerability of the infrastructure that supports it.

The remaining chapters explore topics such as artificial intelligence, the future of technology, and the possibility of a digital afterlife.

Herzog interviews a diverse range of experts, including scientists, academics, entrepreneurs, and activists, who offer their insights on the issues raised by the film.

 

 

Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans

“Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans” is a 2009 crime drama directed by Werner Herzog and starring Nicolas Cage. The film follows Terence McDonagh, a corrupt and drug-addicted detective in New Orleans who is investigating the murder of five illegal immigrants. As he delves deeper into the case, he becomes more and more unstable, plagued by hallucinations and paranoia.

The film is a loose remake of Abel Ferrara’s 1992 film “Bad Lieutenant,” but Herzog’s version takes a different approach, emphasizing dark humor and surrealism over gritty realism. Nicolas Cage gives a memorable performance as the increasingly unhinged McDonagh, and the supporting cast, including Eva Mendes and Val Kilmer, add to the film’s off-kilter atmosphere.

The film has been praised for its stylish direction, unpredictable plot, and Cage’s performance, but some critics have criticized its over-the-top approach and lack of subtlety. Overall, “Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans” is an intense and darkly comedic crime thriller that showcases Herzog’s unique vision and Cage’s acting range.

My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done

The first collaboration between legendary filmmakers David Lynch and Werner Herzog, My Son, “My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done” is a 2009 psychological thriller film directed by Werner Herzog and produced by David Lynch. The film follows the story of Brad McCullum (Michael Shannon), a struggling actor who becomes increasingly unhinged and violent in the lead up to the murder of his mother (Grace Zabriskie). The film is based on the true story of Mark Yavorsky, a San Diego man who killed his mother with a sword.

The film’s narrative structure is non-linear and switches between the present day, in which police are responding to a hostage situation involving Brad and his fiancée Ingrid (Chloë Sevigny), and flashbacks to Brad’s life leading up to the murder. As the police attempt to negotiate with Brad, they are forced to confront the events that led to his violent outburst, including his complicated relationships with his mother, his fiancée, and his theater director.

The film features Herzog’s signature blend of dark humor, surrealism, and existential dread. The stunning cinematography by Peter Zeitlinger captures the stark beauty of the American Southwest, where the film is set, while also emphasizing the isolation and detachment of the characters.

The film boasts an impressive cast, including Michael Shannon, Willem Dafoe, Udo Kier, and Brad Dourif, who all deliver strong performances. The film’s sound design and score, composed by Ernst Reijseger, add to the film’s unsettling and eerie atmosphere.

Overall, “My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done” is a thought-provoking and haunting film that explores the darker aspects of the human psyche. Herzog’s unique directorial vision, combined with Lynch’s producing talents, make for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

 

Into the Abyss

“Into the Abyss” is a documentary film directed by Werner Herzog that explores the case of Michael Perry, a young man on death row in Texas for a triple homicide. The film also delves into the life of Perry’s accomplice, Jason Burkett, who was also sentenced to life in prison.

Through a series of interviews with both the convicted men, their family members, and others involved in the case, Herzog examines the circumstances that led up to the murders and the impact they had on the victims’ families and the community at large. The film also addresses the moral and ethical issues surrounding the death penalty.

Herzog’s trademark style is evident in the film, as he presents the story in a contemplative and thought-provoking way. He allows the interviewees to speak for themselves and doesn’t offer any easy answers or solutions. Instead, he presents a complex and nuanced view of the human condition and the justice system.

Overall, “Into the Abyss” is a powerful and emotional documentary that raises important questions about justice, morality, and the death penalty. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in true crime or social justice issues.

 

Meeting Gorbachev

Meeting Gorbachev is a 2018 documentary film directed by Werner Herzog and André Singer. The film revolves around a series of interviews between Herzog and the former Soviet Union leader, Mikhail Gorbachev. Through these interviews, the film examines Gorbachev’s political and personal life, as well as his impact on world history.

Herzog takes an intimate approach to the interviews, allowing Gorbachev to open up and speak candidly about his experiences. The film explores the complexities of Gorbachev’s rise to power, the changes he implemented in the Soviet Union, and the events that led to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The documentary also delves into Gorbachev’s personal life, including his relationship with his wife and family. Herzog’s thoughtful questioning allows the audience to gain insight into Gorbachev’s motivations, values, and regrets.

Overall, Meeting Gorbachev is a compelling and insightful documentary that offers a nuanced and personal portrait of one of the most important figures in modern history. Herzog’s direction and Gorbachev’s openness create a film that is both informative and emotional, making it a must-see for anyone interested in history or politics.

 

 

The Best Werner Herzog Films – Wrapping Up

So there you have it. The top Werner Herzog films. As you can see, he’s been responsible for some classics of cinema history and it’s clear to see why he’s considered one of the all-time greats.

If you’re sitting down to watch one of these tonight, we envy you. You’re in for a real treat!

We hope this list of the best Werner Herzog films has been helpful. Did we miss your favorite? Let us know in the comments section.
 

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