It's a captivating thought – possessing the ability to construct your own private realm, mirroring your personal philosophies, artistic inclinations, and values. For German multimedia artist Anselm Kiefer, this isn’t merely conceivable; it appears almost inevitable, as showcased in Wim Wenders’ latest poetic documentary. This original and close-up exploration of Kiefer's life, artistry, and convictions investigates how his formative experiences and significant influences molded him into the prolific, varied, and demanding creative figure he is, considered one of the most important artists of the 20th century. The film uses conversations with Kiefer himself, historical and recent footage of his pieces, and scenes recreating moments from his youth and early career to illustrate how he rose to prominence in the art world through the substance, themes, and messages within his work. The documentary delves into his mythological, spiritual, and philosophical perspectives, alongside his unwavering dedication to portraying Germany’s involvement in World War II—a pursuit that some of his fellow citizens found unsettling but that he maintained was essential not to be overlooked or disregarded, despite prevailing public sentiment. Also presented is the creation of his Gesamtkunstwerk – a “universal artwork” – on his expansive 35-hectare property in Barjac, France, an endeavor to create a work integrating numerous forms of artistic expression, essentially its own self-contained world. This story unfolds as a thematic journey rather than a straightforward recounting of achievements. Consequently, viewers who aren’t already familiar with Kiefer's background, history, and influences might occasionally struggle to grasp everything, but Wenders’ exceptional cinematography, particularly his innovative use of 3-D technology—rare in documentary filmmaking—more than makes up for it. “Anselm” is undoubtedly an unconventional film that won’t resonate with all audiences, even those who typically enjoy documentaries. However, if you're looking for something unique, stimulating, and visually striking, this film is definitely worth experiencing.

Source on TMDB