The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser (1974)

The unique Werner Herzog never ceases to impress me with his ability to craft a story that can crawl up into my psyche and leave me bedazzled.  Based on the true story of the Foundling of Nuremberg, Kasper Hauser spends his childhood locked away in a dungeon to then be left on the street to fend for himself by his mysterious keeper.  He can't speak, can barely walk, and knows nothing of the world.  The film moves along at a subtle pace that's just perfect for a seemingly simple story.  But it's the questions the film evokes that prove how complex this film really is.  When the film ended I was left emotionally and intellectually piqued.  Everything about this film is special.  Bruno S. seems as if he was born to play the role of Kasper.  Such a simpleton could have been easily misinterpreted, comical even.  Yet Bruno masterfully finds balance and creates a character that will haunt me for a long time.  I don't know how Herzog does it.  He captures images that live.  Even just some wind blowing through a field of grass is magical or Kasper looking at his reflection in some water inspires.  Grade: A