Werner Herzog’s Unconventional Journey in Filmmaking

LOS ANGELES, CA — In a revealing behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process of filmmaker Werner Herzog, the acclaimed director showcased his unreleased documentary film, “The Ghost Elephants,” during a recent visit to an editing suite in Los Angeles. As Herzog and editor Marco Capaldo reviewed footage, they highlighted the film’s whimsical portrayal of elephants set against a Schubert soundtrack.

Herzog described the project as not just a wildlife film but a philosophical exploration, drawing parallels to Moby Dick. “It’s a fantasy of elephants,” he explained to CNN correspondent Anderson Cooper. “Maybe a search, like for the white whale, for Moby Dick. It’s a dream of an elephant.”

Best known for masterpieces like “Aguirre, the Wrath of God” and “Fitzcarraldo,” Herzog has crafted unconventional documentaries about a myriad of topics, from volcanologists to grizzly bear interactions. His unique narrations often veer into philosophical territory, prompting viewers to contemplate profound questions about existence. “Are we floating in a strange and beautiful reality? Do we dance in our minds?” he mused.

Cooper, reflecting on Herzog’s work in a segment on 60 Minutes, noted Herzog’s approach differs significantly from conventional documentary filmmaking. “He doesn’t storyboard a documentary film out. He doesn’t even look at transcripts,” Cooper commented. Instead, Herzog relies heavily on his instinct and emotional connection to the footage. During the editing process, Herzog and Capaldo view all the shots in one sitting, marking those he feels passionately about with exclamation points.

“When something has three exclamation marks, it means, ‘If this is not in this film, I have lived in vain,’” Herzog said, emphasizing his deep emotional investments in specific images. This method culminates in the careful weaving together of visuals with his signature narration, which he believes elevates the cinematic experience.

In a recent editing session for “The Ghost Elephants,” Herzog paused at an empty lake frame, seeking to enhance the moment with reflective narration. “Hold it as long as we have…I need to say something over this here,” he instructed Capaldo, illustrating his hands-on process of integrating commentary to evoke audience engagement.

Herzog also shared insights from his current work titled “Theatre of Thought,” where he examines humanity’s relationship with the brain. He discussed how he uses seemingly mundane images, such as a television displaying fish, to stimulate deeper thoughts in the audience. “Do fish have souls? Do fish have dreams?” he asked during his narration, demonstrating his penchant for prompting introspection.

Herzog’s renowned ability to transport audiences into extraordinary realities was further highlighted during his conversation with Cooper. “I transport the audience into something they have never seen, and into something which is outside of reality… beyond information,” he explained, underscoring his commitment to evoking a sense of wonder and exploration.

Throughout his six-decade career, Herzog has created over 70 films, delving into themes that reflect the extremes of human nature and the complexities of existence. His profound experiences influence his storytelling style, which remains deeply reflective of his formative years in poverty in post-war Germany. Herzog’s approach is colorfully encapsulated in his recollection of bartering personal items for necessary supplies during challenging shoots, reiterating that the real treasure for him lies in the completed film.

As Herzog continues to create and educate aspiring filmmakers in workshops such as his “film school for rogues,” he urges students to gain real-world experiences instead of traditional academic knowledge. “You do not become a poet by being in a college,” he stated, advocating for earning a living through life experiences that enrich one’s artistic vision.