Image: Courtesy of Alliance Films
Dir: Werner Herzog (Encounters at the End of the World, Nosferatu: Phantom der Nacht (1979), Grizzy Man, Fitzcarraldo)
Documentary
Canada/USA/France/Germany/UK, 2011
Reason to see: Herzog films area always must-see's for me
Cave of Forgotten Dreams we see into a literal time capsule of cave drawings discovered in 1994 in France’s after being sealed in for 20,000 years. The location is called Chauvet Cave and it's highly contained and secured as to not disturb the thousands years old drawings, but through the magic of film we are able to see and experience it anywhere in the world.
There is always something special about documentaries from director Werner Herzog, whether it's taking us to Antarctica in Encounters at the End of the World or introducing us to a man who loves bears in Grizzly Man, he has a very unique perspective and I've often wondered what draws him to any one subject. He serves also as narrator in Cave of Forgotten Dreams, telling us the history of the cave as well as interviewing historians, paleontologists, experts on art and life as to what the drawings could mean, why & when they were created and about who created them. I loved the interview segments, I think Herzog should have his own show because although some questions feel leading there always end up with interesting answers. I loved the theories people have for the drawings and the strong convictions of the truth of their history even though it often conflicted which things I personally though was what we were seeing or the possibly inspiration. There is no conflict in one aspect of the film though, and that is the beauty of the drawings. Wow. They are gorgeous and unique, and do literally feel like how you could see them come alive. When the film played theatrically it was shown in 3D and I can imagine that would make it even more impressive.
I highly and widely recommend Cave of Forgotten Dreams, and specifically would encourage anyone interested in art, history or documentary film to check it out not only because it's beautifully done but also because it's a truly unique chance to see a moment in time from so long ago. Absolutely Breath taking.
DVD Extras:
- Optional French Subtitles & Theatrical Trailer
Shannon's Overall View:
I loved it
I will watch it again
I highly & widely recommend it - especially for art and history lovers
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© Shannon Ridler, 2011
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