Even Dwarfs Started Small
Even Dwarfs Started Small

Movie spotlight

Even Dwarfs Started Small

1970
Movie
96 min
German

A group of tormented patients stage a coup at an oppressive, dismal asylum after they're not allowed out on an excursion.

Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes80%
Director: Werner HerzogGenres: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy

Plot Summary

In a remote institution for people with dwarfism, the residents rebel against their warden and begin a campaign of chaotic destruction and bizarre rituals. Their actions escalate from petty vandalism to an almost apocalyptic spree, questioning authority, conformity, and the very nature of human behavior. The film presents a surreal and often disturbing look at rebellion and the absurd.

Critical Reception

Werner Herzog's debut feature is a polarizing and highly unconventional film. While some critics were baffled or repulsed by its dark, absurdist humor and unsettling themes, others recognized its raw energy, unique vision, and provocative commentary on societal structures. It has since gained a cult following among fans of avant-garde and challenging cinema.

What Reviewers Say

  • Provocative and darkly humorous exploration of rebellion.

  • A surreal and unsettling examination of authority and chaos.

  • Unconventional and challenging, a hallmark of Herzog's early work.

Google audience: Audience reception is not widely documented with specific summaries for this early and unconventional film.

Fun Fact

During the filming of 'Even Dwarfs Started Small', Werner Herzog reportedly had to stop filming multiple times because the actors, who were actual dwarfs, would get into fights with each other and even with the crew.

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