Cave of Forgotten Dreams (Herzog, 2011)

Fascinating documentary that takes you to a world that almost no one will ever be able to personally see, the Chauvet Caves in France. As a documentary, a few cinematic features stood out. The cinematography is amazing as the filmmakers were not allowed to use much light at all. Still, they captured the cave drawings remarkably and these images are simply breathtaking. To be close to thirty thousand years old, yet still clear as a bell, these drawings are otherworldly. Herzog also crafts a great narrative as the films narrator and his sound design and score for the film are really good. There are a few moments when the film goes absolutely silent and at these moments the power of the drawings hits you with full force. To me the real power of the film goes to the depiction of the multitude of members of the scientific community. These people serve to show that the mind can be so powerful and innovative when given the chance. they are utterly brilliant if not often very kooky! Which is cool with me. :)