Kaspar Hauser

You don't have to be German to be fascinated by this award-winning historical drama that endeavors to solve one of that country's most intriguing mysteries. Reportedly, more than 2,000 books have been written about Kaspar Hauser, who was also the subject of a renowned 1974 film by Werner Herzog. In 1828, Hauser was discovered on the streets of Nuremberg, a feral "wild child." This captivating film makes a compelling case that the ill-fated Hauser, who is gradually assimilated into "civilized" society, was a political pawn in a plot to take control of the throne. Recommended. (K. Lee Benson)[DVD Review—Dec. 11, 2007—Kino, 133 min., in German w/English subtitles, not rated, $24.95—Making its first appearance on DVD, 1993's Kaspar Hauser sports a nice transfer with DVD extras including a stills gallery. Bottom line: a small extras package for a solid historical drama.]