Psych-Out Cinema: WINGS OF DESIRE (1987)

WINGS OF DESIRE is a masterpiece of cinematography and story.  A film about what it’s like to be human and to experience the joy of life.

 

Premiering in 1987, the film was directed by Wim Wenders from a script by Wenders, Peter Handke, and Richard Reitinger. The cast includes Bruno Ganz as Daniel, Otto Sander as Cassiel, Solveig Dommartin as Marion, and Peter Falk appearing as himself.

 

The story unfolds through the eyes of angels Daniel and Cassiel as they observe Berlin from above and wander its streets. The angels listen to the thoughts of humans as they go about their daily lives. Over time, Daniel falls in love with a mortal woman and longs to be mortal himself.

 

 

The cinematography is magnificently shot by Henri Alekin with incredible aerial and street visuals of 1987 Berlin when the city was still divided by East and West.

 

In order to distinguish who are angels and who are humans, Alekin uses black and white from the angels’ perspective, and colour when humans are interacting.

 

The soundtrack for the film blends in perfectly with the cinematography, with music by Nick Cave who also makes a cameo appearance in the movie.

 

WINGS OF DESIRE is the perfect film to watch in February when it’s cold, dark and gray and the world feels like what the angels are seeing in the movie. Most importantly this film reminds us of what it’s like to be human, to see colours, to touch ,to taste, to endure pain and to give and to feel love.

 

 

Psych-out cinema is proud to present this wonderful film of love for all to enjoy during Valentine’s day season at The Revue Cinema. (TERRY O’FLAHERTY)