Conan O’Brien sits down with Werner Herzog, filmmaker known for traveling great distances by foot, moving a ship over a mountain, and watching Here Comes Honey Boo Boo. They discuss childhood poverty, authenticity in chaotic moments, intense work relationships, and psychoanalysis. They also recommend Werner Herzog's memoir and talk about McDonald's new sauces.
Werner Herzog explores the theme of losing oneself in storytelling and the significance of madness in his films.
Werner Herzog appreciates the vibrant culture of Los Angeles, highlighting its contributions to art, technology, and trends while acknowledging its flaws and eccentricities.
Werner Herzog emphasizes the enduring power of writing and literature, encouraging others to appreciate the ability of words to convey deep emotions and lasting impressions.
Deep dives
The fascination of madness and intensity in Werner Herzog's films
Werner Herzog, a renowned filmmaker, discusses his fascination with madness and intense themes in his films. He explores the idea of being out of control or losing oneself and its significance in storytelling. He shares anecdotes from his experiences working with actors like Klaus Kinski and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear vision and calmness in challenging situations.
Werner Herzog's perspective on Los Angeles and its vibrant culture
Werner Herzog discusses his love for Los Angeles and its vibrant culture. He appreciates the city for its significant contributions to art, technology, and trends, including the birth of the internet and the emergence of new art scenes. However, he also acknowledges the flaws and eccentricities that come along with it, making humorous observations about certain cultural phenomena and phenomena, but appreciating the city's diversity and creative energy.
Werner Herzog's belief in the power of writing and literature
Werner Herzog highlights his belief in the enduring power of writing and literature. As a prolific writer himself, he shares his love for poetry, prose, and storytelling, emphasizing that his books may have a longer life and impact compared to his films. Herzog encourages others to appreciate the written word and its ability to convey deep emotions, profound stories, and lasting impressions.
Connecting with the TikTok generation: Reimagining the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln
Werner Herzog is asked to make a connection between the historical importance of the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln and the TikTok generation. Taking a creative approach, he suggests reimagining the Civil War as a battle between armies of John Wick-like characters, using symbols that resonate with younger audiences, such as colorful filters and trendy dance moves. By finding a way to present historical events in a visually engaging and relatable manner, Herzog believes it's possible to spark curiosity and interest among the TikTok generation.
Werner Herzog's reflections on therapy and psychoanalysis
Werner Herzog shares his views on therapy and psychoanalysis, expressing caution and skepticism about its effectiveness. He believes that psychoanalysis has been overused and has resulted in overly illuminated self-exploration, which can be inhibiting and prevent people from truly inhabiting their own lives. While acknowledging the value of clinical therapy in some cases, Herzog encourages individuals to be cautious and not overly rely on self-analysis to find meaning or resolution in their lives.
Werner Herzog feels a little bit weird about being Conan O’Brien’s friend.
Conan sits down with Werner to talk about traveling great distances by foot, moving a ship over a mountain, and watching Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.
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