The Enigma of Kasper Hauser is a 1974 movie directed by Werner Herzog.
WHAT HAPPENS?
A man suddenly appears in a small town unable to walk or express himself. He eventually is taken in by a benefactor and educated, which yields interesting results.
ONE LINE REVIEW
The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser chronicles a mysterious man learning to think.
THE ACTORS
It wouldn’t be a Werner Herzog movie if a mercurial lead actor wasn’t featured. While his interactions with the director aren’t as legendary as those of Klaus Kinski, Bruno S. was known as an unorthodox method actor with his own mysterious past.
His performance here is brilliant. He inhabits a character who is essentially a wild-eyed barn animal. His Kaspar has to learn to walk, talk, write and ultimately think. Bruno S. expertly conveys the character’s struggles, as he can’t control his legs – he wobbles and can’t bear weight. His gravity lunges him forward at the dinner table – he spits out his food.
Kaspar is inspected by the locals before eventually becoming part of a freak show. He later escapes and is taken in by a cultured family. Kaspar progresses to learning music, philosophy, religion and logic. His transformation is impressive, as he learns to question his world. His thoughts are both simple and profound – he asks: “Why can’t I play piano like I breathe?”
THE DIRECTOR
Herzog crafts a beautiful, moody atmosphere and takes a measured approach in his presentation. Like most of his movies, Herzog takes his time detailing Kaspar’s evolution. At times, the movie drags but his fascination with Bruno S. compensates.
The cinematography and gorgeous orchestral touches are quintessential Herzog. He enhances the mysterious air of the movie with a swirling tribute to the senses- there is such inherent beauty and wonder in Kaspar’s surroundings. The landscape of lush hills and country gardens adds an ethereal richness unique to Kaspar’s journey.
THE BEST – Holding the Baby
There’s a touching scene where the family Kaspar is staying with has a crying baby. Kaspar stands over the crib and a looming sense of dread emerges – he’s not far removed from living in a barn. However, he delicately holds the baby while a single tear falls from his eye.
THE BEST Part 2 – Brigitte Mira
She’s not given a huge role here but Mira, the standout veteran Fassbinder actor brings a gentle presence. She’s the housekeeper for Kaspar’s benefactors and engages in one of the movie’s more memorable exchanges. Kaspar’s mind has evolved to asking the question: “What are women good for?” The subtle repression in Mira’s face speaks volumes.
THE BEST Part 3 – The Sounds of Silence
Herzog explores the idea of silence throughout the movie. In his developing mind, Kaspar connects silence to horror. “Is that screaming what men call silence?” He later compares the church choir singing to “howling.”
THE WORST – The Mystery Fades
The premise of the movie is intriguing but eventually loses its allure. We never learn why Kaspar suddenly appears and in the end, the mystery still lingers – although the movie shifts to Kaspar’s own stunted development.
FOX FORCE FIVE RATING – 4/5
The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser is a wonderfully odd premise for a movie. While the mystery fades as the movie progresses, Bruno S. is tremendous in a role where he’s given space to create a truly unique character. His performance is a must watch.
