The Great Ecstasy of Woodcarver Steiner (1974)

Original title

Die große Ekstase des Bildschnitzers Steiner

Directed by

Werner Herzog

Genre

documentary film

Country

Germany, United States

Runtime

45 min

Rating

7.2 of 10 from 69 voters

Elsewhere

IMDb

How it feels

This documentary follows Walter Steiner, a carpenter who also ski jumps at a world-class level. It shows his pursuit of a record in ski flying and the risks that come with the sport.

solemnawe-inspiringcontemplativetensegentlebittersweetvisually starkfocused

What happens

The Great Ecstasy of Woodcarver Steiner (German: Die große Ekstase des Bildschnitzers Steiner) is a 1974 documentary film by German filmmaker Werner Herzog. It is about Walter Steiner, a celebrated ski jumper of his era who worked as a carpenter for his full-time occupation. Showcased is Steiner's quest for a world record in ski flying, as well as the dangers involved in the sport. Herzog has considered it one of his "most important films." (from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)

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