N/A

Much more rigorously focused (and much longer) than Les Blank's other films I've seen, Burden of Dreams is a making-of-a-movie documentary that rather blows its genre mates out of the water, not least because of all the Les Blank moments in it, such as when the camera closes in on insects or lingers over food preparation. This comes without neglecting the production of Werner Herzog's Fitzcarraldo, including being on board for the plunge through the rapids (The stars went through it, too). Accidents are noted, the mechanics behind getting the boat over the isthmus are disclosed, and Herzog's reflections and worries throughout the production are given voice by the director himself. I don't think BoD is better than the nonpareil epic that Fitzcarraldo is. Perhaps BoD's almost leisurely pace, its attention to the film's ensemble of real natives, and its lack of sensationalism make me undervalue it. Still, Blank's other films are more purely enjoyable. --Ray Olson

As always, whatever Herzog does is amazing. I expect the "making of the film" may be better than the film itself.

Didn't do anything for me. The premise felt like a waste of time, and indeed the boat (SPOILER) never did make it across the mountain, though it looked like it was only a hill between two rivers. An ambitious project but felt like a failure. Some parts were interesting but I wouldn't recommend it unless, of course, you're a Herzog fan.

This IS a good documentary- in fact it's one of the best about making a film that's ever been made. If you want to see Herzog in his prime then this film by Les Blank is the one to watch- it's poetic and inspiring, as well as truthful and brutal.

Perhaps this is a good documentary. But it just left me feeling tired and empty.

For a complete picture, make sure to view the interview with Herzog in special features.

This is a wonderful documentary, but how about adding the subject film to the library catalog! "Fitzcarraldo" *is* available on DVD.