Werner Herzog, a celebrated figure in cinema, is renowned for his distinctive approach to filmmaking, prolific work, and sharp intellect. In an industry saturated with superhero franchises, Herzog’s unique perspective is a breath of fresh air. But what is his connection to the world of skateboarding?
While Werner Herzog doesn’t have a skateboarding background, his ethos resonates deeply with the skateboarding community. This idea sparked after reading Werner Herzog – A Guide for the Perplexed, where his unconventional wisdom eerily mirrors a skater’s mindset. His principles, like capturing the perfect shot by any means, carrying bolt cutters, and defying institutional norms with DIY tactics, strongly align with the spirit of skateboarding. Herzog’s DIY approach to filmmaking, built upon decades of experimentation and learning from failure, is akin to the skater’s dedication to their craft.
Intrigued by these parallels, we reached out to Herzog to discuss the similarities and differences between filmmaking and skateboarding.
Werner Herzog Portrait
The conversation aimed to explore how Herzog’s philosophy intersects with the skateboarding mindset, examining the shared values of creativity, perseverance, and a do-it-yourself ethos. This exploration goes beyond the surface, diving deep into the mindset of both a filmmaker and a skater.
The Herzog Approach: A Skater’s Manifesto
Herzog’s filmmaking philosophy is akin to a skater’s approach to their craft. He emphasizes the importance of taking risks, pushing boundaries, and using unconventional methods. This mindset is evident in his films, where he often tackles challenging projects with limited resources. Similarly, skaters often face obstacles, whether it’s security guards or challenging terrains, and they creatively navigate these challenges through resilience and innovation.
Herzog’s DIY approach is another point of connection with skateboarding. Much like skaters who build their own ramps or modify their boards, Herzog emphasizes self-reliance and resourcefulness in his craft. His emphasis on hands-on work, trial and error, and constantly striving for improvement resonates deeply with the skateboarding community.
Werner Herzog Interview
His belief in “getting the shot by any means necessary” mirrors the skater’s drive to land a trick, no matter the obstacles. This shared mentality highlights the similarities between two seemingly different worlds. The guerrilla tactics Herzog advocates can also be seen in skaters who seek out hidden spots and defy expectations. This shared spirit of creativity and independence is what makes the connection so fascinating.
Similarities and Differences: Skateboarding and Filmmaking
While filmmaking and skateboarding may seem like disparate disciplines, they share more common ground than one might think. Both require immense dedication, passion, and a willingness to embrace failure as a learning experience. Both filmmaking and skateboarding rely on constant practice and experimentation. Skaters, like Herzog, often work without much institutional support and take pride in creating something with their own hands. The core of both is the need for creative expression, pushing against limitations, and a commitment to a craft.
However, the two fields differ in their ultimate goals and modes of expression. Filmmaking often aims to tell a story or convey a message, while skateboarding focuses on physical performance and style. Herzog’s narratives explore complex themes through crafted narratives, whereas a skateboarder’s story is told through movement and tricks.
Herzog’s Perspective on Skateboarding
Though not a skater himself, Herzog’s outsider perspective provides a fresh lens through which to view skateboarding. His appreciation for the DIY ethos, the resilience of skaters, and their unconventional approach to navigating the urban landscape offers a new interpretation of the subculture. He approaches the topic with intellectual curiosity, rather than direct experience, making his observations unique.
Herzog’s understanding of skateboarding is based on shared principles of creativity, self-reliance and a disregard for conventional norms. These core values underpin his approach to filmmaking and align with the skater’s world. His insightful view provides a unique perspective, further highlighting why he resonates so well within the skateboarding world.
Conclusion: A Shared Ethos
Werner Herzog’s connection to skateboarding is not about shared activities, but about shared values. His philosophy resonates with the core of skateboarding – the do-it-yourself mentality, the importance of creative expression, and the constant pursuit of innovation. Although he doesn’t skate, Herzog embodies the spirit of skateboarding.
This unusual pairing of a renowned filmmaker and the world of skateboarding demonstrates that common principles can connect seemingly different worlds. The conversation invites viewers to consider the shared ethos and understand that different crafts can be linked by dedication, passion, and a unique approach to life. It’s a testament to the power of shared values and the creative spirit.
