tech
‘We needed a Hitler who really vibed with the dog’: meet Lexie, the world’s first cinemadographer
A new film, Blondi, takes audiences inside the Führer’s bunker in the final days of the Third Reich, from the point of view of his beloved dog
TL;DR
- The film 'Blondi' features a German Shepherd named Lexie as a co-director of photography, with a camera mounted on her back.
- The experimental approach aims to create an uncomfortable and gritty cinematic experience, with sudden pace changes and freaky angles.
- Lexie, Hitler's dog, was a propaganda tool and played a role in testing cyanide pills before Hitler's death.
- The script was adapted by Peter Greenaway from his own short story about Blondi.
- Actors' screen time depended on Lexie's attention, creating a unique dynamic where they competed for the dog's notice.
- Casting the actor to play Hitler was challenging, particularly finding someone who could 'vibe with the dog'.
- The film's creators believe dogs capture energies, and Lexie's perspective reflects the grim atmosphere of the bunker.
- The filmmakers faced challenges, including shooting without permission and actors competing for the dog's attention to gain favor with Hitler.