Paganini

I think descriptors for Kinski lIke “insane” or “psychopathic” or even perhaps “brilliant” betray what he really was: a complete narcissist. Paganini is emblematic of that— the ultimate vanity project where Kinski sees himself as the disturbed and quasi-Mephistophelean genius whose artistic talents make young girls writhe in ecstasy and throw themselves into hysterics like he’s one of The Beatles. Interesting because Kinski cuts a decidedly hideous and uncharismatic figure; looking like Mr. Hyde with his top hat and stringy long black hair. All that aside, it’s not as bad of a film as its reputation suggests. There’s enough cinematic skill on display to prevent it from falling into Wiseau territory. That’s not to say there aren’t idiosyncratic choices on display, such as endless scenes of horse-drawn carriages careening down dirt roads in slow motion which seem to serve no purpose. Dialogue is sparse, supplanted by a persistent violin soundtrack that propels the film along with a manic and restless energy. As a character, Paganini isn’t particularly well fleshed out. He comes from nothing, has no apparent motivations and any scenes that seek to add human dimension— like as the doting and overly-affectionate father to his son— come off a a bit creepy and weird. In the end, the film is worth seeing largely as a curio; the culmination and footnote of one of cinema’s most infamous figures. Unfortunately, Kinski’s notoriety as an abuser makes it hard to really invest oneself in a…

As the review title says. This film is actually more dark than it seems on the surafce. When you look deep into what it is suggesting without being direct it's quite a disgusting story, but dan is it done well.

scored at deep discount but after seeing all extras, interviews including 52 min behind scenes footage, would have paid full price

Love him or hate him, he knew you couldnt take your eyes off

I’m still processing this, and don’t think I’ll really be able to properly judge it until a second viewing. A passion project. A work of hubris. Kinski was many things, most of them awful, but he was certainly never boring.

Oh Kinski, what’s left to say. He was definitely one of a kind. Not his best work, but far from his worst. The transfer quality is excellent.