Barely able to walk or talk due to a life spent in isolation, a young man arrives in 1820s Nuremberg, clutching a note with his name written on it. Initially regarded by the locals as a novel curiosity, he is taken under the wing of a compassionate professor who gradually assists him in adapting to conventional life. Werner Herzog’s eloquent interpretation of this remarkable true story, featuring a mesmerising performance by non-professional actor Bruno S, is back in cinemas to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Grand Jury Prize winner at the 1975 Cannes Film Festival.

Reviews

‘Werner Herzog’s enduringly gripping and influential movie is rereleased for its 50th anniversary; it is Herzog’s early masterpiece, a bold and brilliant retelling of a strange true story from German history’
★★★★★
Peter Bradshaw, The Guardian

‘This terrific movie from Werner Herzog’s golden period in the 1970s is deliberately-paced, perfectly played and as moving as it is thought-provoking.’
★★★★★
Kim Newman, Empire Magazine