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Conquest of the Useless summary
Brief summary
Conquest of the Useless is a memoir by Werner Herzog that chronicles the making of his film Fitzcarraldo. It delves into the extreme challenges and Herzog's relentless pursuit of his cinematic vision in the Amazon rainforest.
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Conquest of the Useless
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Exploring the Madness of Filmmaking
In Conquest of the Useless, Werner Herzog takes us on a journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where he and his crew embarked on the tumultuous production of his film Fitzcarraldo. The book is a collection of journal entries, written during the making of the film, and it offers a raw and unfiltered look into the mind of a filmmaker consumed by his vision.
Herzog's writing is vivid and intense, reflecting the harsh conditions and the relentless challenges they faced. He describes the physical and mental toll the production took on everyone involved, including the indigenous people who were part of the crew. The director's uncompromising commitment to authenticity led to numerous setbacks, including the need to haul a 320-ton steamship over a mountain, a feat that was actually performed for the film.
The Madness of the Jungle
As the production progresses, Herzog's journal entries become increasingly introspective, delving into the psychological effects of the jungle. He describes the Amazon as a place of madness, where the laws of nature and humanity seem to break down. The crew faces constant threats from the environment, including dangerous animals, treacherous rivers, and the ever-present risk of disease.
Despite these challenges, Herzog remains resolute in his pursuit of the film's completion. He is driven by an unyielding determination to capture the untamed spirit of the jungle, a quality he sees mirrored in the film's protagonist, Fitzcarraldo, a man obsessed with bringing opera to the heart of the rainforest.
The Struggle for Artistic Vision
Throughout Conquest of the Useless, Herzog grapples with the tension between his artistic vision and the harsh realities of filmmaking. He is unapologetic about his demanding approach, often pushing his crew to their physical and emotional limits. At the same time, he acknowledges the futility of many of their efforts, describing them as 'conquests of the useless.'
Despite the chaos and suffering, Herzog finds moments of profound beauty and insight in the jungle. He is captivated by the indigenous people they encounter, their resilience and resourcefulness in the face of extreme adversity. He also reflects on the nature of human ambition, particularly the kind that drives Fitzcarraldo and, by extension, himself.
The Price of Artistic Greatness
As Conquest of the Useless draws to a close, Herzog reflects on the completion of Fitzcarraldo and the toll it took on everyone involved. The film, despite its troubled production, was a critical and commercial success, earning Herzog the Best Director award at the 1982 Cannes Film Festival. However, the personal cost was high, with relationships strained and lives forever changed.
In conclusion, Conquest of the Useless is a deeply personal and introspective account of the making of Fitzcarraldo. It offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a visionary filmmaker, unafraid to confront the madness of his own creative process. Herzog's journey through the Amazon becomes a metaphor for the relentless pursuit of artistic greatness, a journey that is as perilous as it is transformative.
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What is Conquest of the Useless about?
Conquest of the Useless is a memoir by renowned filmmaker Werner Herzog. It chronicles his struggles and triumphs during the tumultuous production of his film Fitzcarraldo in the Amazon rainforest. Herzog reflects on the madness and beauty of the filmmaking process, offering unique insights into the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of artistic vision.
Conquest of the Useless Review
Conquest of the Useless (2004) by Werner Herzog is a captivating memoir that gives readers an inside look into the making of the film "Fitzcarraldo". Here's why this book is worth reading:
- The author's passionate storytelling takes readers on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of creating an ambitious film in the unforgiving Amazon rainforest.
- Herzog's unique perspective offers profound insights into the human condition, ambition, and the pursuit of artistic vision.
- Through his vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, Herzog immerses readers in the world of filmmaking, making the book an engaging and enlightening read.
Who should read Conquest of the Useless?
- Individuals with a passion for filmmaking and storytelling
- Adventurous souls who seek unconventional and thought-provoking experiences
- Readers interested in the intersection of art, nature, and human determination
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Conquest of the Useless FAQs
What is the main message of Conquest of the Useless?
The main message of Conquest of the Useless is a filmmaker's account of the challenges and beauty of making the film Fitzcarraldo.
How long does it take to read Conquest of the Useless?
The reading time for Conquest of the Useless varies, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Conquest of the Useless a good book? Is it worth reading?
Conquest of the Useless captures the passionate and relentless spirit of Werner Herzog's filmmaking journey. It's definitely worth a read.
Who is the author of Conquest of the Useless?
Werner Herzog is the author of Conquest of the Useless.
What to read after Conquest of the Useless?
If you're wondering what to read next after Conquest of the Useless, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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