New Directors From Japan (Third Window Films) DVD & Blu-ray Review

NEW DIRECTORS FROM JAPAN

Do I really need to go on about how important and influential Japanese cinema has been over the years? I would like to think (apologies in advance if you're lazy and completely disregard subtitled films) that any true film fan reading this would know that. I could list and name drop many films, directors, actors, producers writers and various film technicians (you know, the folks who often get ignored), but this isn't a Film Theory exam that I didn't really revise for (been there, done that, got the degree) so I won't do that. I know this isn't much of an introduction, so I will just end by saying that the fine folks over at Third Window Films are without a doubt the best label in the UK when it comes to distributing cinema from East Asia. Wether it's a classic or contemporary effort, Third Window Films have got you covered. One of those releases from the latter half of last year was their New Directors from Japan Blu-ray and DVD limited to 1000 box set, which was a successful Kickstarter project. It does exactly what it says on the lovely cardboard sleeve slipcover and provides us with films from three of Japan's youngest and brightest stars. Those being Nagisa Isogai, Hirobumi Watanabe and Kosuke Takaya. Do these young directors live up to the hype? Do they shine like bright stars or are they merely dying embers? Let's find out! Ladies first!

Nagisa Isogai
(磯谷 渚)

Nagisa Isogai was born in 1985 and graduated from the Film School of Tokyo. Whilst studying, she directed her first film, My Baby whilst studying. The film was presented as part of Nippon Visions in 2012. This was followed up with The Lust of Angels which made its UK premier at the Raindance Festival last year. Little is known (from my research) about the young filmmaker, but one thing is for certain, she's certainly having an effect on cinephiles here in the West.

My Baby
(わたしの赤ちゃん)
2010We kick things off with Isogai's first project, a 16 minute film shot on 16mm film. My Baby follows two sisters Hatsumi (Momoyo Fujji) and Chika (Aki Morita) who are both pregnant. Whilst climbing the steps of a temple,Hatsumi has a tragic accident. Cut to Chika's big day and it's clear that Hatsumi is still (understandably) affected mentally by her loss. She lashes out sees something amiss with the whole situation. Is it all in her head? Maybe she is correct in her suspicions? One thing is for certain, she will go to great lengths to and will do some questionable things to work it out.

 
What can I say about a 16 minute film without completely ruining the experience? I feel I may have said too much, but be under no illusions, this is not a straight forward tale. Now, first thing you will notice is that this being a student film, it's not a polished production. There are some wonderful technical aspects, but it is clear that this an amateur film. Now, I don't mean that in a malicious way at all. Being someone who has studied film and been involved practical aspects during studies, when put it in to context, this is a sensational effort. Taking a theme that has been done before and going in a unique direction. With some great twists and twins, this is a powerful drama that fits the 16 minutes perfectly without rushing or losing too much coherence. Overall, it's an effective short that will linger.

  The Lust of Angels
(天使の欲望)
2014

Isogai's latest effort deals with a social problem that the whole world knows exists. We here in the West know how weird and wonderful Japanese culture and traditions can be. We also know that there is a dark side. Wether it be extreme pornography or what happens within the film itself, groping and sexual assault on public transport. A group of schoolgirls set out to lure out the local perverts who use the train they use to get to and from school. Wether it's physically assaulting their molesters or requesting money to keep quiet, the girls are (quite rightfully) ruthless. Not only do they have to deal with gropers, there's also an all boy rape gang from the nearby boys school to deal with. That's not all the girls have to put up with however. Things get realised within the group and past traumas are relived. Things for the vigilante schoolgirls will never be the same again.

I was not expecting this film to play out like it did. The public transport gropers, although dealing with a serious issue and being an important aspect of the film act more along the lines of setting the scene and tone. The film focuses on the girls, their group and the gradual breakdown that occurs within the group. There were times when I was taken back to 1970's Pinky Violence type films. There is actually amount of violence, bloodshed and uncomfortable scenes of a sexual nature. I had visions of the likes of Meiko Kaji and Reiko Ike in my head as I was watching. Even the title has an exploitation flavour to it. That being said, this isn't a sleazy or exploitative piece of film. It's never over the top or too absurd. All in all, it's a very satisfying piece of filmmaking. It's not an enjoyable film by any means, due to the dark content of the film and the underlining themes throughout. At around 40 minutes, just like My Baby, the runtime is perfect for the content. I suppose you could argue that this would also work as a feature length film, with more of a focus on looking at the characters and their stories. An uneasy film that has the tone just right. Once again, some aspects aren't polished, but it's clear to see that Nagisa Isogai has a very promising future ahead of her.

  Hirobumi Watanabe
(渡辺紘文)Hirobumi Watanabe initially studied Japanese Literature at university. His obsession for cinema started at an early age. After graduating university he decided to study at the Japan Institute of Moving Images. His tutor was was Daisuke Tengam, son of director Shobei Imamura. His graduation piece was A Light Pig of August, a short film about a man who works in a pig farm. The film won the grand prize at the Fuji Film Lovers Festival. After this he directed two drama shorts and his first feature film, And the Mud Ship Sails Away. He also founded the wonderfully named Foolish Piggies Films production company.

  And the Mud Ship Sails Away
(そして泥船はゆく)

In a nutshell, the film centres around a man who lives on the edge of society. He just 'exists/ and lives with his grandmother (the director's actual grandma). He spends the day lazing around the house and drinking. We see him spending time with his friends, complaining about how there's nothing where he lives. Out of work, he has a lot of free time. When he's not lazing around, he often likes to gamble. Not only that but he has an ex wife and small child he has no intentions of ever forging a relationship. He's a bum, plain and simple. He is unskilled and even less motivated to do anything or change the situation. His life changes when a young girls appears at his door. She is the love child of his late father. He didn't even know she existed. After becoming a part of his life and constantly berating him for not having a job, he seeks work... as a drug mule. This leads to a bizarre turn of events that he won't forget too soon.

Watanabe openly admits this is a film about 'nothingness'. It's a true slacker story. Some may be put off by the offbeat humour, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I like films that are simple in terms of plot. It's a very personal film. Watanabe based the script on his own ife and even has familt involved throughout production (his garandother is hilarious in this film). The only budget at his disposal came from his year long stint as a swimming pool repairman. Low budget and small crew aside, this is an extremely noble effort. Shot in black and white with a lo-fi feel to it thanks to the use of digital camera cinematography. The rough around the edges approach combined with the black and white really compliment the story, characters and themes throughout. There's nothing spectacular visually, just like our main character. Of course, it has to be mentioned that there are some extremely surrealist moments in this films (including aliens). The change in tone and pace may be a bit too much for some, but it works due to the fact that our protagonist is a drug mule and it could be argued that he's accidently getting high from being a drug mule. All in all, I found this to be a genuinely laugh out loud piece of film. It's simple with no pretentions. That being said, you are either going to love it or hate it. I hear there are a few scripts in the works and I am very excited to see what Watanabe has in store for us next. If you like films like Office Space or early works of Jim Jarmusch, this should be a treat.

KosukeTakaya
(髙谷監督)Our final director began venturing in to the world of film production whilst at university. He has a few small production, directing and writing credits to his name. Thanks to this, he has worked with many filmmakers in Tokyo. His entry in this set was part initially part of the New Directions fund set up by The Japanese Ministry of Culture. An initiative for filmmakers to produce films that would appeal to an international audience. Being a big follower and lover of fashion, Buy Bling, Get One Free focuses just on that!

Buy Bling, Get One Free
(シャレ番外地)

The final on the set follows a young man who takes his over the top fashion extremely seriously. So much so that his work is suffering and his girlfriend has left him to marry someone else. One day whilst he's enjoying a coffee with a couple of his friends, they get approached by a journalist and photographer who want to shoot them and ask questions for an article. Unfortunately, they're not interested in shooting our protagonist so he makes his way to another table. As he's dwelling on his life, an old man begins to take photos. At first, he finds the situation too weird, but quickly laps up the opportunity to pose. The next day whilst shopping, he is approached by man holding a magazine with his photo on the cover. Things take an even more surprising turn when he is asked to become the magazines house model. Seems things are looking up for the young fashionista... Until he is bundled in to the back of a van and taken to the magazine's headquarters. What starts out as a bizarre turn of events turns in to something a whole lot worse. He well and truly becomes a slave to fashion.

Out of the films, this to me was the least enjoyable. A much more accomplished piece (thanks partly to the fact that Takaya had an experienced crew surrounding him) with slicker cinematography and a much grander scope. I won't say it's a terrible short because that is far from the truth. I just didn't get blown away as much as the other films on show. Visually, this an impressive piece of film. It has a great premise to it which reminded me of films such as the adaptations of Brazil and 1984 and a good use of some tongue in cheek humour. There's a good message within regarding how we can sometimes get so wrapped up in fashion and the culture of celebrity. Overall, a film that shows much promise, would probably work better as a feature film and makes me look forward once to seeing what else we have in store from this clearly talented filmmaker. Be warned, there are some 'interesting' looks throughout which may make you gag!

Overall, this is a fine selection of work from three very talented directors who I hope I see more of. Every film is worth watching. In terms of special features, there are a wealth of interviews that give us insight in to the directors and the films. The set comes on a Blu-ray with two DVDs and is presented nicely with a slipcover. However, the release is limited to 1000 so get it while you can. Luckily there are copies still available. I think Third Window Films have done a stellar job with this release and I hope we get to see future releases in the series because like I said, I really enjoyed the films and I look forward to seeing what we get next from the directors who are showcased. If you are a cinephile, this is a wonderful release. From Kickstarter to reality, I am extremely happy for Third Window with what they have achieved and I must applaud them for getting work out there that not only benefits the directors involved, but also us the viewer. Buy it now and support real cinema! Arguably one 2014's best home releases.

The limited Blu-Ray and DVD set is still available from here.

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Vinegar Syndrome Peekarama Review: Mai Lin VS. Serena (1981) / Oriental Hawaii (1982)

MAI LIN VS. SERENA

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1981)

“The Sexual Challenge of the Century"

Carlos Tobalina (THEULTIMATE PLEASURE, I AM ALWAYS READY) has a little bit of a problem. He has a new film lined up and needs to find his leading lady. His options are the cute blonde Serena (DRACULA SUCKS, PLEASURE PALACE) and fiery Mai Lin (ORIENTAL MADAM, PEEPHOLES). To help him solve his casting troubles, the pair decide to play a little game. They set off to compete against each other in the form of challenges. Starting by giving diners of a local restaurant something much tastier than the house special. Yes, this is one dining experience they will never forget! Once they have finished that, they move on to a local “kinda” gay bar and hit it off straight away with a cute lesbian couple. As a result of their public displays of  competitive affection, the pair find themselves in jail (I'm guessing, because it just happens) but, the challenge doesn't stop there. To gain their freedom, they seduce their prison guards, which doesn't go so well for all involved. After all the excitement the day has given them, the pair return home and take a bath. A bath with a difference. Yep, it's bukkake showdown time! So, will the pairs little game work off? Who was keeping score? How was this game even being scored!? Carlos has the answer and the answer is... Oh what the heck, they both win! Yay!

Forgive me for my synopsis of the film being brief. It's not my fault! The plot is simple. Under the circumstances, it kinda works. When you have Serena going head to head (strange pun intended) with Mai Lin, you don't want to get bogged down with something as trivial a plot driven film, you want the goods! Trust me, you definitely get the goods with this film. It's always great seeing Serena doing her thing! Herself and Mai Ling have good chemistry and are as charming as they are hot. There's a good cast of recognisable faces too. If you're looking for a ludicrous plot (especially in reference to the restaurant scene) that makes you ask yourself multiple questions but gives you a laugh, this is a great film to throw on. Usually, I like my Golden Age smut to have a story and some teasing of depth, but I found myself really enjoying this one for what it was, an excuse to see Serena and Mai Lin do the dirty. There's a variety of sexual acts on show and it's entertaining. I have heard some compare this to the likes of an uninspired compilation film, I think that's unfair. It's just a simple, entertaining and (sometimes unintentionally) funny film. Plus.... IT'S SERENA FOR GOD'S SAKE!
ORIENTAL HAWAII

(dir: Carlos Tobalina, 1982)

“A sensual tidal wave, Mai Lin goes... Oriental Hawaii"

 Welcome to Hawaii! Home to Sun, sea, sand and hard bodied beauties. It's also home to a financially struggling family headed by Bob, played John Leslie (WILD THINGS, CONFESSIONS) and Mildred, played by Jessie St. James (EASY, TROPIC OF DESIRE). To rake in a bit more money so they can once again eat steak every night (sounds like Heaven), they decide to rent out two rooms to local students. The advert is answered by Mai Lin and Jade Wong (PRISONER OF PARADISE, PURELY PHYSICAL). Let's just say that the family welcomes the new tenants with open arms (and legs). I think it helps when you have four fully grown kids, who enjoy a nice bit of family fun, if you know what I mean? Caring is sharing after all. Things get even weirder when Bob has a vivid dream after taking herbal medicine given to him by his new tenants. He dreams of him and the kids getting down and nasty with each other and the two new tenants. Thankfully, this leads him to having sleep-sex wife. Who says herbal remedies are crap!?

Oriental Hawaii is a fun film. You know you are in for a treat when incest is used as light hearted comedy. It's also amazing seeing John Leslie and Jessie St. James cast as parents to the likes of Jon Martin (BEHIND THE GREEN DOOR, SUZIE SUPERSTAR) and Rhonda Jo Petty (THE BABYSITTER, HOT RACKETS). There is actually more story to this film than Mai Ling Vs. Serena and it makes for an even more enjoyable experience. Just like Serena, I always love watching John Leslie on screen. Of course, Jade Wong and Mai Lin are the main attraction of the film, but John Leslie steals the show for me. The comedy works, the story is simple and the incest angle is strangely fun. Watching the brothers Jon Martin and Jesse Adams (GIRLS U.S.A, OCTOBER SILK) share their Asian roommates is entertaining in itself, for all the wrong reasons. The sex is good and varied, so it definitely delivers the goods there. The icing on the cake is the use of the Hawaiian location and the Black Bison-esque score. A lively and fun score for an equally lively and fun film.

Overall, the double feature is solid. Two completely different kinds of film that somewhat compliment each other. Some may not like the coupling, but I think they are both solid Tobalina / Mai Ling entries. In terms of the quality, both films are presented in wide screen and restored in 2K from original negatives. It's safe to say, these films will never look or sound as good as they are presented here. The release is light on extras, aside from trailers for both films, but the affordability and quality of these films more than make up for it. Whether or not you are a newbie or a veteran to the adult genre, this set is worth in your collection. On a purely selfish note, I just adore the poster artwork for both of these films, so the DVD itself looks great on the shelf. This is typical Vinegar Syndrome quality that we should be thankful for. Oh by the way, did I mention Serena stars?

You can buy this release directly from Vinegar Syndrome here, as well as your favourite online retailers.

Vinegar Syndrome Website

Vinegar Syndrome Youtube 

Vinegar Syndrome Direct

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The BFI Werner Herzog DVD Collection Disc 2

It is finally time to look at the second disc of the BFI collection box set. Hope you enjoyed part one and potentially found it useful. This time round, there are only two titles to devour. One being my personal favourite Herzog film, and the other being an example of his early television documentary work.

 THE ENIGMA OF KASPAR HAUSER (1974)

(Jeder für such und Gott gegen alle)

“Nothing lives less in me than my life”

Up until his late teens, Kaspar Hauser (Bruno S.) was locked in a cellar by a man in an overcoat and top hat. Devoid completely of any human contact aside from his mysterious captor, Kaspar had only a toy horse to occupy his time. One day however,  Kaspar is finally released by the man, taught some very basic phrases, handed a letter and a Bible, and left in a town square in Nuremberg. Understandably, the locals are intrigued by this mysterious fellow and Kaspar becomes something of a sensation. The locals take pity on him and begin to teach him how to speak and become a respectable citizen. However, it goes sour for Kaspar and he becomes the latest attraction at the local circus. Thankfully, appalled by what he is seeing, a well respected schoolmaster by the name of Herr Daumer (Walter Ladengast) takes Kaspar in to his own care and helps further him in to a well respected and decent human being. After a while, Kaspar begins to question aspects of society and religion. Starts to think for himself and even baffles Daumer and his fellow academics. There is much discussion, debate and philosophising. Not only that, but Kaspar falls in love with music. Unfortunately, he is attacked by the man who held him captive and is then mysteriously stabbed once recovered from the initial attack. Facing death, Kaspar ponders about visions he has had and then slowly fades away.

The film is based on the real Kaspar Hauser, a German youth. Of course, Herzog's adaptation does drift away from the original source material in places. We are meant to sympathise with Kaspar's hardships and celebrate his liberation, in both the literal and metaphorical form. What I feel the story teaches us is that more often than not, those who have different ideas than ourselves, are not always incorrect. I feel it also tells us that we should nurture young minds and not completely disregard ideas and concepts based on the background or position in society of the person who conceives them. I found Kaspar Hauser to be such a touching, yet devastating film. It's an emotional roller coaster  Bruno S. plays Kaspar perfectly. The fact Bruno spent the majority of his youth in mental institutions plays heavily in his portrayal of a character that is not too dissimilar to himself. It's the subtlety in his portrayal that makes it work. It may not be Herzog's most groundbreaking effort, but this is his masterpiece. A great example of taking a real life situation and presenting it in film form. It's a simple film, with a simple message that is also full of childlike wonder. 

HANDICAPPED FUTURE (1971)

(Behinderte Zukunft)

The only other feature on the disc is Herzog's 1971 television documentary that raises awareness about how handicapped people (children in this case) were treated by society in Germany at the time and compares it to how handicapped people are treated in America. Herzog's subjects in the German portion of the documentary are a group of children born with missing limbs. It looks at how they are grouped together in complexes and educated. They are somewhat segregated from society. That being said, it does shine a light on those who are genuinely trying to help and educate the children, but you can't help but feel distress at the fact that they are again, grouped together in one housing complex and not integrated in to society. That becomes in a way, hardly surprising after you hear accounts from the parents and the children themselves of how they have been demonised. We then cut to America and follow a German born university lecturer who has his independence thanks to things like an electronic wheelchair and his place of residency adapted to make his life more comfortable. Overall, this is a simple documentary that has the focus purely on the subject matter. Just like Kasper Hauser, you will be touched and devastated. A very powerful piece of documentary film making.

I think that the two films on the disc go hand in hand. They both deal with how society looks at people who aren't deemed as 'normal'. They both tackle and address important social issues. They also show that just because someone is different, there is nothing stopping them from doing the same things you can achieve. Both films are presented wonderfully, especially the documentary. So far I am adoring this set for the supplemental features alone. On the disc you get a stills gallery, trailer and audio commentary for Kaspar Hauser.

Thank you for joining me once again, here is to disc 3!

You can buy this set from the BFI here, MovieMail here and Amazon UK here. Buying from the BFI directly means you can support the great work they do 100%. You can also pick up a gorgeous looking steelbook of Aguirre here and here.

To find out more about the BFI and some of their release check out their website here.

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Vinegar Syndrome Review: Bijou (1972)

BIJOU 

(dir. Wakefield Poole, 1972)

On his way home after a long day at work, a construction worker (Ronnie Shark) witness a young woman (Cassandra Hart) being hit by a car. Of course, being the gentleman that he his, our brave hero is there to help a lending hand. Well, I should say thieving hand. He steals the young woman’s purse and makes it back to his apartment. Obviously shaken by what he has just witnessed, he decides to get a load off (no pun intended) his mind and have a little bit of rub and tug to the music of Led Zeppelin (you know, mood music), he takes it in to the shower but starts to get images in his head of the woman and abruptly stops (fair play). He notices a flyer for a club called Bijou in the woman’s purse and decides to hit the place up to help take his mind off things. When he arrives all is not as it seems and things get a little strange from here on in.

Bijou is the follow up to the hugely successful Boys in the Sand. This time however, we have something more of a hallucinogenic acid trip. What we witness within the Bijou nightclub is a series of highly erotic and often surreal sexual acts. It’s not for everyone, not just for the fact that this is a gay porn film. If you don’t like experimental film, you will most certainly not like this at all. Wakefield’s use of both contemporary and classical music is once again second to none, no matter what your sexual preference or opinions on the sexual content, you can’t deny that Poole is a true artist and visionary. The sets are simple, essentially blacked out spaces (Poole’s own apartment) with minimal use of theatre style lighting, but work brilliantly for what you are seeing unfold on the screen. His use of mirrors and smoke machine certainly add to the affect. In my honest opinion, this is a very tough film to review. From a simple viewpoint, this is a great example of the underground and experimental cinema of the time. However, if you look more closely after repeat viewings, there is a lot that can be potentially dissected, especially in terms of the “psychosexual puzzle” as stated within the synopsis of the DVD. One thing is for certain, this is definitely a film (as Poole himself intended) that will affect people in different ways.

Just like Vinegar Syndrome’s release of Boys in the Sand, you get a healthy amount of special features. There is an audio commentary and video introduction with Wakefield Poole. As well as a vintage interview with himself and an interview with author Linda Williams. Not only that, but you get original audition footage and of course, a trailer. Do I really need to tell you how much of a good job this release is? It’s safe to say that Vinegar Syndrome’s restoration is once again top notch and the overall package is a great thing. If you are a fan of Wakefield’s work or this film in general, you must go out and buy it. If you’re looking for an interesting experience no matter what your tastes or sexual preferences, this is also a release worth owning.

You can read my review for Vinegar Syndrome's release of Boys in the Sand here. Bijou is available to buy directly from Vinegar Syndrome here as well as your favourite online retailers.

Vinegar Syndrome Website

Vinegar Syndrome Youtube

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Ascot Elite Jess Franco Golden Goya Collection DVD Review: Downtown

DOWNTOWN - DIE NACKTEN PUPPEN DER UNTERWELT

(dir. Jess Franco, 1975)

Jess Franco (99 WOMEN, VAMPYROS LESBOS) stars as Al Pereia, a private detective who is down on his luck and waiting for that next big job. Thankfully for him, he gets a job from a glamorous young woman by the name of Cynthia, played by the ever lovely Lina Romay (FEMALE VAMPIRE, LORNA THE EXORCIST). She wants him to photograph her husband Carlos Rivas, a nightclub owner played by Erik Falk (BARBED WIRE DOLLS, SEXY SISTERS) who has an eye for the ladies. Good old Al accepts and begins his newest assignment. Unfortunately, things get a little complicated when Carlos is found dead. Al becomes the prime suspect and on his quest to clear his name, discovers that Cynthia isn’t actually the wife of Carlos. It turns out that she and her lover Lola played by Martine Stedil (WOMEN BEHIND BARS, SWEDISH NYMPHO SLAVES) are working for Carlos’s real wife Olga, played by Monica Swinn (LOVE CAMP, EAST OF BERLIN). Will the police believe Al? Who killed Carlos Rivas? How many close ups of female genitalia will we have the joy of seeing? Well, it’s a Franco film so that last question should be easily answered. As for the others, you’re just going to have to watch aren’t you?

Downtown is a nice gem within Franco’s vast filmography. Once again he shows that he is a man of many talents by directing, writing, shooting and starring in the film. Overall, it’s an enjoyable outing with a solid story that has some nice twists throughout. Not only that, but the comedic aspects of the film work very well too. Of course, being a Franco film, there are moments that are somewhat clumsy, but it all adds to the overall charm and although not one of Franco's more classier efforts, the score from the Swiss composer Walter Baumgartner (ROLLS-ROYCE BABY, JACK THE RIPPER) is toe tappingly wonderful in places. Lina Romay is fabulous as ever, her scenes with scissor sister Martine Stedil are sexy, yet awkward at the same time, which makes for a positive all in its own (some of their dialogue is priceless).Even Franco gets in on the act with the ladies, it’s a tough job being a director sometimes! If you are looking for a lesser known, but competent Franco film, this is a great one to try. If you are a fan of Jess Franco, you already own this right?

Ascot Elite have done a great job with this release. Going of the DVD version, the transfer is as nice as we will probably get of this film so if you are a Bluray collector, you’re in for a treat with this one. The film is presented in German with English subtitles. In terms of extras you are treated to a photo gallery which has some fantastic shots and a selection of trailers from Ascot Elite’s Jess Franco Goya collection. It’s humble, but at least it’s something. Overall, Ascot Elite have done a great job. Like I said, it’s a great release for those discovering the weird and eclectic world of Jess Franco and for fans of Franco’s work, this is a must.

You can buy the DVD version from Amazon.de here and the Bluray version here as well as from your favourite online retailers.

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The BFI Werner Herzog DVD Collection Disc 1

Werner Herzog is one of my all time favourite directors. Ever since watching his take on NOSFERATU, I knew I was hooked. Exploring both his fictional and documentary films, you will find a fascinating body of work. Sure, some of his opinions I really don’t agree with (I’m talking about you, INTO THE ABYSS and DEATH ROW) but wether you agree with the content or not, a film with Herzog’s name on it will at least touch you in one way. The British Film Institute recently released a 10 disc box set of some of Herzog’s films. Over the coming weeks (and maybe months) I will be going  through each disc here on the blog. Part review. Part retrospective. Hopefully you will join me on my Herzogian journey. Wether you are a fan of Herzog or a newcomer to his work, I hope you at least get something out of this.

AGUIRRE, THE WRATH OF GOD (1972)

(Aguirre, der Zorn Gottes)

“I am the wrath of God. Who else is with me?”

The year is 1560. A group of Spanish conquistadors and their Indian slaves, lead by Gonzalo Pizarro (Alejandro Repullés), are on a journey through the beautiful, yet deadly terrain of the Andes mountains. They are in search of the kingdom of gold, El Dorado. Unbeknownst to them, it’s a myth created by the newly conquered Indians. Whilst battling the rugged landscape, lives are lost and the expedition comes to a halt. Gonzalo gives Pedro de Ursúa (Ruy Guerra) a week to venture on a head to see what is in store. He makes Don Lope de Aguirre (Klaus Kinski) the second command. What follows is a descent into madness for Aguirre. After members of Ursuúa’s group are killed at the hands of an unseen enemy (amongst other things), becoming increasingly frustrated, Aguirre stages a mutiny and orders the surviving members of the group to join him on finding the mythical riches. Death follows Aguirre round every corner, even at his own hand. Those who survive slowly become feverish and begin to believe everything they see and hear right up until the end, where Aguirre’s small army and sick daughter are stranded on a raft. Everyone dies when they are bombarded with arrows except Aguirre. Insane, isolated and surrounded by death, Aguirre’s raft becomes overrun with monkeys and together, they slowly drift off down the river.

 What a fantastic way to start off this box set. Aguirre, the Wrath of God is nothing short of a masterpiece. On a technical level, the film is beautiful to behold. The breathtaking landscape of the Peruvian mountains and jungle are shot beautifully by Thomas Mauch. The visuals are complimented perfectly by the equally breathtaking (and not to mention haunting) score by Popol Vuh. Herzog’s documentary style overall is nothing short of spectacular. It’s often rough in places, but you get thrown in to the situation playing out on screen. Klaus Kinski steals every scene he is in, and you really get the sense that Kinski doesn’t just believe he is the character Aguirre, but also a God like figure. The electricity in his eyes is almost as ferocious as his performance.The story itself is loosely based on the accounts of Gaspar de Carvajal, a Spanish Domican monk as well as the life of Aguirre himself. It’s a very well written story but overall, it’s Kinski’s performance and the location that really hold the power of this film. Aspiring filmmakers, take note. 

THE UNPRECEDENTED DEFENCE OF THE FORTRESS DEUTSCHKREUZ (1967)

(Die beispiellose Verteidigung der Festung Deutschkreuz)

“Attacking is good, but living is better, even in poverty.”

This short film from 1966 sees four men breaking into and abandoned castle in Deutschkreutz. The castle was the site of a battle between German and Russian soldiers during World War II. The men discover old military uniforms and hardware. They proceed to act out drills, training and eventually battles. Of course, there is no emery and Herzog claims that his film is “A satire on the state of war and peace and the absurdities it inspires.”. The film is essentially silent except for the use of voice over. It’s a very simple film and crude in some regards. You can clearly see Herzog slowly perfecting his craft with this one. It’s a pleasure to see early short work of Herzog.

 LAST WORDS (1968)

(Letze Worte)

“They tell me to say no, but I won’t even say that.”

Last words is a very strange short film indeed. Filmed in two days on the island of Spinalonga island and Crete, Last Words tells the story of the last man to leave Spinalonga. The film is told through accounts of the locals and those involved in relocating the man to Crete. We find out that Spinalonga was a leper colony and that the man, as a result of being forcibly removed, flat out refuses to talk to people. He can seen during the evening however, playing the lyre in a local pub. What makes Last Words so intriguing is its unusual narrative structure. Characters repeat their lines multiple times, often in long takes. Overall, a very unusual and enjoyable short.

PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FANATICS (1969)

(Massnamen gegen Fanatiker)

“I would like to protect the horses from fanatics.”

The next short on the disc is another quirky one that showcases Herzog’s humour. It was also the first film Herzog shot in colour. Basically, the short is about various people at a racetrack in Munich who like to protect horses from fanatical fans. This includes an oddball played by Mario Adorf who demonstrates his favourite punching technique, man who likes to walk horses round a tree for 36 hours and a young boy who, despite the track owners well wishes, wants to protects horses and then eventually resigns to protecting flamingos instead. To top it off, there’s an old man who interferes with each of their interviews and isn’t happy. This short is seen to be believed and is genuinely funny. 

FATA MORGANA (1971)

“In Paradise, even gentiles move mountains.”

The final film included on the first disc isn’t a short film, but Herzog’s bizarre and often unnerving film, Fata Morgana. Shot in the Sahara desert, the film heavily relies on the image. Herzog and his cinematographer Jörg Schmidt-Reitwein capture the vast landscape primarily by long tracking shots. The cinematography throughout is devastatingly effective. To accompany the striking visuals Lotte Eisner (in the German version) provides narration reciting Mayan creation myth. Some pieces of Leonard Cohen's work are also included. Overall, the film deals with idea of mirage (the definition of Fata Morgana) and you will often find yourself seeing things in the background. Aside from the landscape we find abandoned villagers, the corpses of animals and suspicious looking residents of the area. It’s possible to get lost within the film and many aspects are open to interpretation. If one thing is for certain, there is never a dull moment throughout the film. Newcomers to Herzog may want to watch this after viewing some of his more well known and accessible films. On a side note, the making of the film is just as interesting as the film itself and is well deserving of more research.

I'm not going to go in to the technical aspects of the DVD collection until the conclusion in the final post but I can say that all films look and sound brilliant. Extras on the first disc include English and German versions of Aguirre and Fata Morgana as well as commentaries for both. There is also a stills gallery as well as theatrical trailers. Overall, just by looking at the first disc alone, this set is very promising indeed. It's great to see Herzog's earlier short films as well as seeing his more notable efforts presented so well.

I hope you will join me for my second part in this series where I will be looking at the second disc.

You can buy this set from the BFI here, MovieMail here and Amazon UK here. Buying from the BFI directly means you can support the great work they do 100%. You can also pick up a gorgeous looking steelbook of Aguirre here and here.

To find out more about the BFI and some of their release check out their website here.

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Vinegar Syndrome Review: Graduation Day (DVD Review)

GRADUATION DAY

(dir: Herb Freed, 1981)

"The Midvale Track Team Will Soon Be Running For Their Lives!"

 Laura, played very briefly by Ruth Ann Llorens (THE COMEBACK KID) is a talented high school track runner who meets her demise during a race, where she collapses and dies on the spot in front of her whole school (how embarrassing! Even more so due to the fact she won!) Fingers are immediately pointed towards Coach Michaels, played by the ever charming Christopher George (CITY OF THE LIVING DEAD, THE EXTERMINATOR) because he is a determined and often ruthless son of a gun! A couple of months pass and Laura's sister Anne, played by Patch Mackenzie (SERIAL, IT'S ALIVE 3) returns home from the Navy to honour her sister's graduation. Unfortunately, someone has put a spanner in the works... The track team are slowly getting picked off one by one by a mysterious killer wearing a fencing mask. Of course, the terror of a lunatic picking off most of the upcoming graduates means the celebrations must be put on hold right? Oh hell no! This is graduation! Bring on the keg!

 Who exactly is behind the carnage? Could it be the pushy coach taking his revenge on those who question his teaching style? Could it be Anne wreaking a revenge fuelled massacre against the students? Maybe it's even the violent boyfriend of Anne, played by E. Danny Murphy (TOMBOY, FINAL MISSION) who has lost it because he has lost his high school sweetheart? Will the festivities continue, or will the killer have ruined every student's favourite moment? You'll have to watch to find out. The body count is high, there is terror among campus and the Principal sure is pissed off at this damn inconvenience, poor guy!

 I'm just going to get this out of the way, I really don't like slasher movies as a whole. I enjoy horror films and I love giallo films so you'd think I would get a kick out of 70's and 80's slashers but I just don't. Graduation is one of the examples that just cements I dislike the genre. The film has it's moments but overall, it's just pretty damn boring and not even entertaining in an ironic way. Positives first. I really enjoyed the score. The track used in the opening montage is fantastically groovy. The score by Arthur Kempel (DOUBLE IMPACT, BEHIND ENEMY LINES) is used very effectively and there are some great moments of tension. Cinematography is also an enjoyable visual treat courtesy of Daniel Yarussi (TOMBOY, CALIFORNIA HEAT), especially the slow motion segments. Christopher George is always great, Patch Mackenzie has such presence and we are also treated to Linnea Quigley's wonderfully petite chest. Oh and there were maybe one or two genuinely nice deaths (I'm not going to be pole vaulting for a while). Aside from that, it's just a very generic slasher film. I can't really pick out too many because it's not awful, just extremely dull. Even the twists and turns can be seen a track field away.

Like I said, I can't rant on because it's not the worst slasher I have seen. I also can't complain about the treatment this film has received from Vinegar Syndrome. The film has received a 4k restoration and is presented in the OAR. I haven't seen the original Troma release but from what I can gather, the film is certainly a major upgrade. Aside from the high quality presentation, there is also an abundance of extra features. We get two commentary tracks, one with wirer and producer David Baughn (BEYOND EVIL) and the other with The Hysteria Continues team. You also get video interviews with Patch Mackenzie, Herb Freed (PARADISE LOST, BEYOND EVIL) and Jay Sadoff (FRIDAY THE 13TH PART 3, PINK NARCISSUS). Finally, you also get the original theatrical trailer. I have only managed to watch the DVD portion of the combo pack but from scans I have seen of the blu-ray print... This is one hell of a clean up job. If you are a fan of this film or love slashers, this is an essential purchase. Did I mention it was region free?

You can buy the blu-ray and DVD combo directly from Vinegar Syndrome here as well as your favourite online retailers.

Vinegar Syndrome Website

Vinegar Syndrome Youtube

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