Encounters at the End of the World

Review: This is a Herzog documentary so it goes without saying that it is beautifully shot and conceived. Encounters at the End of the World is more then just a visually pleasing exhibition of "fluffy penguins" (as Herzog puts it), it is an analysis of the people that live on the research bases in Antarctica and what motivates them to endure the frigid conditions. The group that does occupy the frozen continent turn out to be fascinating people. Most are highly educated, and seemingly all of them are world travelers looking for a new adventure. You know you have a peculiar living environment when there are PHDs as dish washers. This is both ,breathtaking to look at and intellectually stimulating. Another altogether well made film by Werner Herzog.
Rating: 4/5

Award Consideration: Despite the fact that this is a very well made documentary and that Herzog is one of my favorite filmmakers, I'm still going to have to go with Man on Wire as the best documentary. It brought more to the table then Encounters, and created a more coheasive story from start to end.