Conquest of the Useless: Filmmaker's Reflections

"Conquest of the Useless" is a work of art in its own right, an Amazonian fever dream that emerged from the delirium of the jungle, and more than just Werner Herzog's journal of the making of the monumental, problematical motion picture, Fitzcarraldo. Werner Herzog (Grizzly Man) is one of the most revered and enigmatic filmmakers of our time, and Fitzcarraldo is one of his most honored and admired films.

The film involved major cast changes, reshoots, and the hauling (without the use of special effects) of a 360-ton steamship over a mountain. Conquest of the Useless offers fascinating observations about crew and players, including Herzog's lead, the somewhat demented internationally renowned star Klaus Kinski, and breathtaking insights into the filmmaking process that are uniquely Werner Herzog.

It is ever tempting to try to fathom Herzog's restless spirit and his determination to challenge fate, as described by Janet Maslin in the New York Times: "Hypnotic…." Conquest of the Useless provides an eye-opening look into the mind of a cinematic master, revealing the delirium and dedication that went into the making of this monumental film. The book is a testament to Herzog's unwavering vision and his ability to confront the most daunting challenges with an uncompromising artistic drive.

The narrative weaves together the challenges of the production, the personalities of the crew and cast, and the director's own reflections on the creative process. Readers are transported to the heart of the Amazon, where the boundaries between reality and dream become blurred, and the pursuit of a seemingly impossible feat becomes a metaphor for the human condition.

Conquest of the Useless is a must-read for fans of Herzog's work, as well as for anyone interested in the creative process behind the making of a masterpiece. The book offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a visionary filmmaker, whose unwavering commitment to his art has made him one of the most influential and respected figures in the world of cinema.

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