Watch Signs of Life

Signs of Life is a gripping drama film from 1968 which tells the story of three German soldiers who are stranded on a remote Greek island during World War II. The film explores the psychological impact of war on human beings, as the three soldiers gradually descend into madness while trying to survive in their isolated situation. The film is directed by Werner Herzog, who is known for his distinctive and idiosyncratic style. Herzog is considered one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, and Signs of Life is one of his early masterpieces. The film was shot on location on the Greek island of Kos, providing a stunning and authentic backdrop to the story.

Peter Brogle plays the lead role of Stroszek, a soldier who has been injured in combat and is now left with a sense of hopelessness and despair. He is joined on the island by two other soldiers, Becker and Meinhard, played by Wolfgang Reichmann and Athina Zacharopoulou respectively. As the days go by, they try to establish some semblance of order and routine in their new surroundings. However, as time passes, they begin to unravel emotionally and mentally.

One of the key themes of Signs of Life is the psychological toll of war. The film is a powerful commentary on the human cost of conflict, examining the ways in which war can break down a person's sense of self and identity. The island itself becomes a metaphor for the mental landscape of the soldiers, who are trapped in a place that is both beautiful and treacherous.

Herzog's direction is masterful throughout the film, creating a sense of foreboding and unease as the soldiers' mental states deteriorate. The use of sound and music is particularly effective, with the sounds of the island's wildlife and the soldiers' own inner turmoil combining to create an eerie sense of tension.

The performances of the three lead actors are also outstanding, with Brogle's portrayal of Stroszek being particularly memorable. He captures the character's deep sense of disillusionment and despair, and his descent into madness is both tragic and unnerving.

Despite its dark subject matter, Signs of Life is a film of great beauty and sensitivity. The island setting is stunning, and Herzog's ability to capture the natural world on film is truly remarkable. The film is a testament to the power of cinema to explore profound themes and emotions.

Overall, Signs of Life is a must-see film for fans of Werner Herzog and for anyone interested in the psychological impact of war. It is a powerful and haunting exploration of the human psyche, and it lingers in the mind long after the credits have rolled.

Signs of Life is a 1968 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.