Gesicht Aus Glas: A Detailed Introduction

What is Gesicht Aus Glas?

Gesicht Aus Glas, which translates to "Face of Glass" in English, is a German horror film directed by Werner Herzog. Released in 1977, the film follows the story of Hias, a man who becomes obsessed with creating a glass face to replace his own.

The Plot of Gesicht Aus Glas

The film begins with Hias, a glassblower, working on a new piece of art. As he admires his work, he notices a flaw in the glass. Frustrated, he smashes the piece and cuts his face on the broken glass. The wound becomes infected, and Hias's face begins to deteriorate.

Despairing, Hias seeks help from a doctor, who tells him that there is nothing that can be done to save his face. Hias becomes increasingly withdrawn and isolated, spending his days locked in his workshop, working on his glass face.

As Hias's obsession with the glass face grows, he begins to neglect his family and friends. He becomes increasingly paranoid and delusional, believing that the glass face will grant him immortality. In the end, Hias's obsession with the glass face leads to his downfall.

The Themes of Gesicht Aus Glas

Gesicht Aus Glas explores several themes, including the dangers of obsession, the nature of beauty, and the fragility of the human body. The film also raises questions about the role of art in society and the limits of human understanding.

The Critical Reception of Gesicht Aus Glas

Gesicht Aus Glas received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. Some praised the film's visuals and Herzog's direction, while others criticized its slow pace and lack of character development.

Despite the mixed reviews, Gesicht Aus Glas has gained a cult following over the years. The film is now considered one of Herzog's most important works, and it is often cited as a key example of the New German Cinema movement.

Conclusion

Gesicht Aus Glas is a complex and challenging film that explores several important themes. The film's visuals are stunning, and Herzog's direction is masterful. However, the film's slow pace and lack of character development may make it difficult for some viewers to enjoy.