Wings of Desire / Der Himmel über Berlin (1987 Wim Wenders)

I knew at once from the roving, black and white heaven-sent camera and angels Bruno Ganz and Otto Sander eavesdropping on Berliners' thoughts that this was going to be something special. Perhaps referencing AMOLAD, the earth-bound moments are in startling colour (that the film was so beautifully shot by 78 year old Henri Alekan is a little miracle of its own), as we get involved in the lives of circus performer Solveig Dommartin, elderly professor Curt Bois (Casablanca's pickpocket!) and actor Peter Falk.

Ganz's sympathetic expression - especially to the kids who can see angels - is beguiling, as is his desire to experience life. Ruminative, philosophical, powerful, tender, funny film written by Wenders and Peter Handke and powered by a strong score from Jürgen Knieper.

Shot on Eastman Kodak with an Arriflex BL4. Berlin somehow looks even worse when it's in colour! I love that the Circus is the 'Circus Alekan'!

Screen shot The Funambulist

The title's literally 'Heaven over Berlin'.