The Films of Wim Wenders

by Kolker, Robert Phillip; Beicken, Peter

• ISBN13: 9780521389761
• ISBN10: 0521389763
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1993-02-01
• Publisher: Cambridge Univ Pr

Summary

The authors trace the development of one of the most well-known directors of the New German Cinema that flourished in the 1970s and early 1980s. Examining Wim Wenders' career from his early film school productions through his mature works of the 1970s, this book also analyses the most recent works, as well as the themes and preoccupations that unite his oeuvre. As the authors note, Wenders' works have been profoundly influenced by American films, especially the 'road movie' genre. His own work often features characters who are always on the move, in an attempt to capture a glimpse of their identity and place in the world. They also represent a generation of postwar Germans seeking to redeem themselves and the history of their country by turning to American popular culture, particularly its music and movies.

Table of Contents

Preface

Part I. The Boy with the Movie Camera: Biography

Historical background

Student films

Part II. On the Road: Exile and Innocence: Major theme and images in Wenders' films

Part III. Close analysis of Selected Films: Kings of the Road

The State of Things

Paris, Texas: between the winds

Wings of Desire: between heaven and earth

Part IV. Conlcusion: A stranger in Heimat

Footnotes to I - IV

Filmography

Bibliography.