Werk ohne Autor (Never Look Away)

An artist creates to define then reimagine himself in post-war Germany, extremist ideology having devastated his country.

His countries.

But it's not a psychological film, it doesn't examine Kurt Barnert's (Tom Schilling/Oskar Müller/Cai Cohrs) sadness in agonizing detail, preferring to focus on his development as an artist, and his relationship with Ellie Seeband (Paula Beer).

Differing post-war socioeconomic and sociopolitical realities which each require flexible attitudes regarding the ways in which a jurisdiction manages its resources comment within, as the two make their way, their world more of a complex fluid multifaceted mixture of traditional and unorthodox realizations, the application of such terms depending on one's point of view, than that which proliferates in East Germany after the end of the Second World War.

They're certainly full of life, of spirit, of vigour, of adventure, as Werk ohne Autor (Never Look Away) celebrates creation.

If someone chooses to make art that corresponds to a specific philosophy, and that choice corresponds to his or her creative gifts, I see nothing wrong with that, as long as they don't try to make everyone else do the same thing.

That's how I understand social democracy.

It creates an open space wherein everyone can create whatever they want, as long as they don't force others to create what they prefer in their own free time.

Who would want to see reality reflected everywhere?

It's a compelling vital crucial discipline to be sure, but so are fantasy and science-fiction, romantic comedy and fictional drama.

If one art form is given leverage over all the others, it does the arts themselves a great disservice, and the solemnity of its ethos risks transforming into farce, if not chaos, or oblivion.

I think Netflix gets this.

I hope so, anyways.

There's so much more to be written about this film than what I've shared here.

It presents its demons without dwelling on them, belittling tyranny in the face of inspiration.

Isn't it so much easier to love?

And isn't life more worth living if so much of it remains unpredictable?

Carefree.

Outside of work.

Beyond race or creed or ethnicity?

Beyond violence?

*I've written about the affirmation of life in this review. This does not mean that I am supporting the pro-life movement. I support a woman's right to choose and should she choose to have an abortion I support her decision. However, when a child is born I support her or his right to grow up in safety in a culture where equal opportunity exists. And for them to enjoy the lives they live. Free from war and tyranny.