This heady, intellectual documentary is mostly fascinating, but occasionally does become pretentious or dull.
Four modern philosophers debate the meanings of a series of lectures given by the philosopher Heidegger near the start of WWII, which many see as an apologia for the Nazis.
This procession of talking heads is intercut with a very visual journey hundreds of miles up the Danube river (called "the Ister" in Germany) to its source, visiting everything from archaeological sites to the ruins of concentration camps.
Together the words and images give us a look into Germany's history and self-perception as a nation.
Basically this is an illustrated university level philosophy class, but it was far more engaging and educational (and followable) than I feared, especially given its 3 hour running time.
If not quite as moving or illuminating as I hoped, it was still enjoyable, insightful, and certainly unique.
Four modern philosophers debate the meanings of a series of lectures given by the philosopher Heidegger near the start of WWII, which many see as an apologia for the Nazis.
This procession of talking heads is intercut with a very visual journey hundreds of miles up the Danube river (called "the Ister" in Germany) to its source, visiting everything from archaeological sites to the ruins of concentration camps.
Together the words and images give us a look into Germany's history and self-perception as a nation.
Basically this is an illustrated university level philosophy class, but it was far more engaging and educational (and followable) than I feared, especially given its 3 hour running time.
If not quite as moving or illuminating as I hoped, it was still enjoyable, insightful, and certainly unique.