‘Die große Ekstase des Bildschnitzers Steiner’ and ‘Land of Silence and Darkness’

‘Die große Ekstase des Bildschnitzers Steiner’, (The Great Ecstasy of Woodcarver Steiner’), FRG, 1974, directed by Werner Herzog

45 minutes / 16mm / OV w/ Engl. sub

With this film, Werner Herzog discovers the significance of the voiceover commentary – using his own voice. Walter Steiner, the magnificent Swiss ski jumper, outshines his competitors. But the film doesn’t just make this clear, but also reveals the mechanisms of a sport that shows barely any consideration for its jumpers, focussing instead on spectacle. With almost frightening clarity, the many falls shown highlight the considerable risk linked to these competitions; best distances should be attained, at almost any price. Steiner sees through these mechanisms and doesn’t submit to them, it’s simply about pursuing his dream of flying: a true Herzog hero.

‘Land des Schweigens und der Dunkelheit’, (‘Land of Silence and Darkness’), FRG, 1971, directed by Werner Herzog

85 minutes / 16mm / OV w/ Engl. sub

The piercing description of the life of a deaf and blind woman. A document of it’s era which points out society’s lack of care for disabled people. “Shocking” due to the precision of its observations, constructed with empathy and tenderness. Fini Straubinger, the film’s protagonist, remained a close friend of Werner Herzog for many years after their collaboration.

The screening is part of the film series “Werner Herzog”.

→ Kino Arsenal – Potsdamer Straße 2 – 10785 Berlin | Admission: € 8,50