Werner Herzog, the esteemed German filmmaker known for classics like “Fitzcarraldo” and “Grizzly Man,” offers uncompromising guidance to aspiring directors: “To make films you have to be a borderline criminal.” This provocative advice was shared during a masterclass at the Venice Film Festival. Herzog’s insight underscores the unconventional path required in the world of cinema, where creative vision often clashes with practical limitations. Here’s a deeper look at what the legendary director had to say.
Embracing the Unconventional
Herzog didn’t mince words as he advised emerging directors on navigating the complexities of filmmaking. “You have to know how to forge a shooting permit in a country with a military dictatorship, how to pick locks,” he asserted. This statement, meant to highlight the extreme dedication needed, reinforces his stance that being a “borderline criminal” is part of the job.
He further encouraged developing a wide array of skills beyond traditional film education, emphasizing that flexibility and resourcefulness are crucial. “If you do not have that [in you], don’t even think about starting to become a filmmaker,” he added, pointing to the necessity of raw determination and adaptability in a challenging industry.
Remaining Prolific Against All Odds
Despite encountering obstacles in bringing large-scale projects to life, Herzog advised not to dwell on unfulfilled ideas. Reflecting on a project with Francis Ford Coppola regarding the Spanish conquest of Mexico, he remarked, “We spent many sleepless nights over it but it never materialized because it could not be financed.”
Instead of fixating on a single script, he has continued to produce prolifically, creating 28 films and authoring seven books since those early unrealized ambitions. “That unmade script? It doesn’t matter,” Herzog stated, promoting the idea of moving forward with new projects rather than being hindered by setbacks.
The Reality of Cinema
Herzog candidly discussed the complexities of independent filmmaking, countering the romantic notion of complete creative freedom. “Independent cinema does not exist. You are dependent on production systems, you are dependent on distribution. You are dependent on permits,” he explained, urging filmmakers to adopt a pragmatic approach.
While emphasizing self-reliance, he humorously advised, “Make some money somehow. But don’t rob a bank, because that’s counterproductive. They usually catch you.” This underscores his belief in balancing ambition with practicality.
A Continuous Creative Journey
At the Venice Film Festival, Herzog premiered his documentary “Ghost Elephants,” exploring the mysterious quest for elephants in Angola. He’s simultaneously working on “Bucking Fastard” in Ireland and developing an animated film based on his novel “The Twilight World.”
Herzog’s persistent creativity exemplifies his philosophy: “I never stop working and always have more than one project in mind,” he said. This relentless forward motion, regardless of barriers, paints a picture of a director perpetually driven by the stories he yearns to tell.
