Famed Director Werner Herzog Can’t Get the Brain Out of His Mind in ‘The Theater of Thought’

While the documentary can sometimes feel like an extended segment of ‘60 Minutes,’ the director’s discursive style and occasional flights-of-fancy elevate the procession of professors, doctors, entrepreneurs, and devices.

Via Argot Pictures
Front to back, director Werner Herzog, cinematographer Luke Holwerda, scientific advisor Rafael Yuste, and second cameraman Gus Holwerda. Via Argot Pictures

Director Werner Herzog has built a reputation on making movies that ponder life’s existential questions. His new documentary, “The Theater of Thought,” delves into the latest technologies and scientific research focused on the brain. While it can sometimes feel like an extended segment of “60 Minutes,” the director’s discursive style and occasional flights-of-fancy elevate the film’s procession of professors, doctors, entrepreneurs, and devices. 

That’s not to say that those on camera don’t address interesting topics, possess curious backstories, or exhibit slightly offbeat characteristics, much like their interlocutor. Mostly, though, they impart immense intelligence and insight into the human brain and how advances in our understanding of the organ may transform society.

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