In this episode, we dive into the fascinating and chaotic world of Werner Herzog’s 1982 film Fitzcarraldo, and the documentary that captured its making, Burden of Dreams.
We explore the themes of obsession, madness, and art that both films share, and the incredible challenges that Herzog and his crew faced in the Amazon jungle. From casting problems, to border wars, to pulling a steamship over a mountain, we discuss how Herzog’s vision pushed him and everyone around him to the limit, and how Les Blank’s documentary revealed the human and environmental costs of such an ambitious project.
Join us as we examine the burden of dreams, and the dreams of burden, in this epic double feature.
*Spoiler Warning* As a general warning we discuss the film in detail and often will comment on scenes or aspects of the film that could spoil it for a listener who has not seen the film we are discussing.
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