Meaning:
The quote you have presented is a statement made by the renowned German actor Klaus Kinski, known for his intense and often volatile personality, about his experience working with the equally legendary filmmaker Werner Herzog. This quote sheds light on the tumultuous and often contentious relationship between the two creative forces during the production of their collaborative films.
Klaus Kinski and Werner Herzog collaborated on several films, including "Aguirre, the Wrath of God", "Nosferatu the Vampyre", and "Fitzcarraldo". Their partnership was characterized by intense artistic clashes and personal conflicts, which often spilled over into their working relationship. Kinski's quote encapsulates the extreme lengths to which he felt he had to go in order to achieve the creative vision that he and Herzog shared, as well as the personal animosity that developed between them.
In the quote, Kinski expresses the relentless nature of the filming process, stating, "I have to shoot without any breaks." This conveys the demanding and arduous nature of the production, highlighting the pressure and intensity that Kinski experienced while working on Herzog's films. The relentless shooting schedule likely contributed to the stress and strain on the actors and crew, and Kinski's words offer a glimpse into the grueling conditions under which the films were made.
Kinski's mention of yelling at Herzog and hitting him speaks to the deep-seated conflicts and confrontations that arose between the two men during the creative process. It suggests a level of tension and discord that went beyond mere artistic differences, hinting at a volatile and combative dynamic between actor and director. This tumultuous relationship between Kinski and Herzog has become legendary in the annals of cinema history, and the quote serves as a stark reminder of the intensity and volatility that permeated their collaborations.
The mention of having to fight for every sequence underscores Kinski's insistence on achieving perfection in every aspect of the filmmaking process. It reflects his uncompromising dedication to his craft and his unwillingness to settle for anything less than his ideal vision. This uncompromising attitude may have contributed to the clashes with Herzog and the broader challenges faced during the production of their films.
The quote concludes with a particularly striking statement: "I wish Herzog would catch the plague, more than ever." This visceral expression of animosity reveals the depth of Kinski's resentment and frustration towards Herzog. It conveys a profound sense of disdain and hostility, illustrating the extent to which their working relationship had deteriorated. This intense sentiment encapsulates the tumultuous nature of their collaboration and the personal toll it took on both men.
In conclusion, Klaus Kinski's quote provides a candid and unvarnished glimpse into the tumultuous and often turbulent relationship between the actor and filmmaker Werner Herzog. It reflects the intense artistic clashes, personal animosities, and uncompromising dedication to their craft that characterized their collaborations. The quote serves as a testament to the complexities and challenges inherent in the creative process, as well as the profound impact that interpersonal dynamics can have on the production of art.