As a leading figure of the New German Cinema, Werner Herzog once narrated in his documentary “Grizzly Man”:
“I believe the common denominator of the universe is not harmony, but chaos, hostility, and murder.”
This sentiment finds a stark reflection in one of his most controversial works.
The Descent into Darkness: Herzog’s “Bad Lieutenant”
Film Information
- Original Title: The Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call - New Orleans
- Director: Werner Herzog
- Screenwriters: William Finkelstein, et al.
- Cast: Nicolas Cage, Eva Mendes, Val Kilmer
- Genre: Thriller
- Country: USA
- Language: English, Spanish
- Runtime: 122 minutes
- Alternative Titles: Bad Lieutenant, Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans
Synopsis
Terrence McDonagh (Nicolas Cage) is a dedicated New Orleans police officer. During the chaos of Hurricane Katrina, McDonagh rescues a trapped prisoner, earning a promotion to Lieutenant but also sustaining a permanent back injury.
As the pain intensifies, McDonagh’s reliance on prescription drugs escalates into full-blown addiction. Unable to afford his habit, he descends into corruption, embezzling funds, gambling recklessly, and unleashing his volatile temper. His only solace lies with his girlfriend, Frankie (Eva Mendes), a prostitute. He is a far cry from the respected hero he once was.
When a family is brutally murdered, McDonagh and his partner Steve (Val Kilmer) investigate, uncovering a drug deal gone wrong, with all signs pointing to drug kingpin “Big Fate” (Xzibit).
Initially reluctant to delve into the complex case, McDonagh finds his conscience reawakened amidst the physical agony and moral decay. He resolves to solve the crime before his addiction consumes him entirely.
Critical Reception
“Bad Lieutenant” is a bizarre and darkly humorous film that unexpectedly cultivates a sense of enjoyable pessimism. (Sohu Entertainment)
Symbolic imagery, such as fish, lizards, snakes, and alligators, appears repeatedly at pivotal moments in Terrence’s life, reflecting his emotio and the character’s psychological journey take precedence over plot. Its European noir sensibilities overshadow the conventions of American crime dramas. While Terrence’s erratic behavior can be attributed to his struggle with addiction, the film’s loose narrative and unpredictable subplots may leave viewers puzzled by Herzog’s suspenseful intentions. (NetEase Entertainment)
