In today’s world of virtual reality headsets, 3-D movies may seem a bit outdated. However, some filmmakers have used 3-D Technology to enhance the movie-watching experience, opening up new dimensions and possibilities. One notable example is Wim Wenders’s 2011 film “Pina,” which brought the viewer up close and personal to the works of German choreographer Pina Bausch, using 3-D Technology to create a front-row seat experience.
Now, Wenders has turned his lens to another artist in his latest 3-D documentary, “Anselm.” The film dives into the life and work of German artist Anselm Kiefer, incorporating archival footage, re-enactments of Kiefer’s early years, and contemporary scenes of the artist at work in his studio. With little dialogue, “Anselm” delves into Kiefer’s history and his efforts to bring repressed and forgotten elements into physical form.
Kiefer’s work, which has been widely praised for its enormity and elemental nature, explores themes of history, memory, and the physicality of the world. In particular, the film captures Kiefer’s Eschaton foundation, named after the biblical concept of the end of the world. The film’s use of 3-D Technology allows viewers to experience Kiefer’s artistic process in a tangible way, feeling the heat, texture, and physicality of his work.
As “Anselm” takes us through Kiefer’s life and work, it becomes not just a documentary, but a contemplative experience that brings the past and future together. The film ends with a poignant scene of Kiefer walking through spaces that hold significance in his life, allowing viewers to viscerally experience his personal history.
“Anselm” is a 3-D film that offers a unique level of preservation and contemplation, delving into the depths of Kiefer’s artistry and the impact of history on the world. It is a thought-provoking and immersive experience that offers a new perspective on the intersection of art, history, and memory.
Historic Background:
Anselm Kiefer is a renowned German artist known for his monumental paintings and sculptures that explore themes of history, memory, and German identity. Born in 1945 at the end of World War II, Kiefer’s work has been shaped by the post-war period and the collective trauma of the Nazi era. His use of 3-D Technology in the film “Anselm” offers a unique window into the physicality and emotional depth of his art, inviting viewers to engage with his work in a tangible and immersive way.
