When you hear the words “painter” or “artist’s studio,” a certain image might come to mind: a chaotic desk cluttered with paintbrushes and tubes of paint, a large window flooding the room with sunlight, perhaps even a beautiful garden beyond. The film Anselm (2023), which depicts the German contemporary art giant Anselm Kiefer, takes the form of a documentary. However, it is directed by Wim Wenders—the renowned filmmaker behind Paris, Texas, Wings of Desire, and Perfect Days. In his hands, the film transcends a mere record of events, becoming a poetic visual experience where fact and fiction intertwine seamlessly. Kiefer is one of Germany’s most prominent […]

For a certain generation, Wim Wenders is a special figure. During the era when art-house cinemas had a significant cultural impact, his films were considered “must-see movies.” Following the success of “Paris, Texas” (1985) and “Wings of Desire” (1987), Wenders’ works such as “The Goalie’s Anxiety at the Penalty Kick,” “Alice in the Cities,” and “Kings of the Road” were repeatedly re-released. While not necessarily fervent, Wenders’ films were quietly embraced. The influence he has had on contemporary filmmakers and visual artists is immeasurable (film students in Japan were only making road movies in the narrow confines).