The Cave of Forgotten Dreams (2010)

In 1994 a team of scientists in the Ardeche region of south-eastern France discovered a previously unknown cave, one which proved to contain the oldest known paintings in existence. Wisely French cultural authorities chose to seal off the cave to prevent unauthorized access and further contamination. With the exception of two full time security guards the only people permitted into the cave are scientists of various disciplines who wish to study its geological, anthropological, artistic and other areas of scientific interest. It was not until a couple of years ago that a professional film crew was allowed inside to document what has become known as the Chauvet Cave. That film crew belonged to the celebrated film maker Werner Herzog, and what they captured is truly amazing.

Ages ago the principal entry way into the cave collapsed, thus preserving the interior much as it would have appeared 10,000 plus years ago. Scientists have discovered no human remains in the cave, though bones from a variety of ancient animals are found in abundance. It appears that no human beings actually lived in the cave full time, but rather that it was used for ceremonial purposes and was considered a sacred space. The variety and large number of paintings inside are testament to the caves long usage for artistic and presumably ceremonial expression, some of the paintings have been dated back as much as 32,000 years with subsequent paintings added over the course of ensuing millennia. Area wildlife, including now extinct woolly rhinos are depicted, as are mammoths, bears, horses and other creatures, human depictions are absent save for the presence of palm prints and one anthropramorph. The rang of styles, and sophistication of the artwork is impressive, the people who drew in these caves have every right to the designation of artist, their work is both skilled and evocative.

The term 'sacred space' is wholly appropriate for the cave, there is a sense of solemness and aw there, it is like a cathedral, a feeling that is only added too by the films often choral soundtrack. Director Herzog adds his signature poetic and raptures narration, and interviews with various scientists and researchers provide the historic context. This documentary was actually filmed in 3D which would have made it all the more impressive to view in a theater, but even without that added effect the visuals are magnificent, and the whole experience reverent and spiritual in nature. The Cave of Forgotten Dreams is a unique and meaningfull experience, film making of an almost wholly different type, and something that will stick with you, perhaps forever.

Great