Wim Wenders’ ‘Anselm’ Documentary Showcases the Artist in 3D at Cannes

Wim Wenders, the German director famous for his Palme d’Or-winning road movie Paris, Texas, is back with a new documentary that explores the life and work of artist Anselm Kiefer. While Kiefer’s portfolio is awe-inspiring, it remains shrouded in mystery. Wenders’ film, which premiered at Cannes, gives context but never answers, preserving the enigma that surrounds Kiefer’s art. The allure of 3D is immediately apparent, especially when Wenders takes us into Kiefer’s studio, where the sheer size and scale of the art is shockingly apparent. Kiefer’s work is not easy by any metric, and the film raises questions about the boundaries of art. By the end, it’s hard to imagine seeing it in any format other than 3D. While Anselm may not broaden the reputation of its already internationally known subject, it’s an extraordinary post-pandemic endeavor that reminds viewers of the thrill of being in the presence of great art.