Cover image for Conquest of the useless : fever dreams in the jungle
Title:
Conquest of the useless : fever dreams in the jungle
Publication Date:
2024

2009
Publication Information:
[New York, New York] : Penguin Books, 2024.

©2009.
Physical Description:
ix, 306 pages : map ; 21 cm.
ISBN:
9780593832134
Abstract:
One of the most revered filmmakers of our time, Werner Herzog wrote this diary during the making of Fitzcarraldo, the lavish 1982 film that tells the story of a would-be rubber baron who pulls a steamship over a hill in the Amazon jungle in order to access a rich rubber territory. Later, Herzog spoke of his difficulties when making the film, including casting problems, reshoots, language barriers, epic clashes with the star, and the logistics of moving a 320-ton steamship over a hill without the use of special effects. Hailed by critics around the globe, the film went on to win Herzog the 1982 Outstanding Director Prize at Cannes. Herzog's diary is a glimpse into the mind of a genius during the making of one of his greatest achievements.
General Note:
Translation of: Eroberung des Nutzlosen. 2004.

"This English translation was first published ... by Ecco ... 2009"--Title page verso.

"These texts are not reports on the actual filming [of Fitzcarraldo]--of which little is said. Nor are they journals, except in a very general sense. They might be described instead as inner landscapes, born of the delirium of the jungle. But even that may not be entirely accurate--I am not sure."--Preface by Werner Herzog, Jan. 2004.
Genre:
Language:
English
Holds: