Duke Ernst is robbed of his castle as a result of a conspiracy and sent on the first crusade as penance. His journey takes him far beyond known borders into a world full of wonders and dangers. Accompanied by brave knights, he crosses the sea to reach the Orient, where he encounters numerous mythical creatures in his search for the legendary carbuncle: the one-legged Sciopods, the winged Ariasperns, the tiny Pygmies and the enigmatic birds Roch. During his adventures, he finds unexpected allies in the mysterious Aggripinians – and falls in love with their princess. With her, his newfound friends and the precious carbuncle, he finally returns to his homeland, where he faces his destiny. Lutz Dammbeck's interpretation of the medieval Duke Ernst story first took shape in sketches during his time in the GDR. The film combines historical motifs with surreal imagery and questions the crusading spirit and the encounter between cultures. The multi-layered animation reflects the aesthetics of medieval tapestries and book illustrations, while also playing with contemporary experimental techniques. With DUKE ERNEST, Dammbeck creates a haunting examination of power, exile and cultural otherness. His film was shown at several international festivals, including the Prix Danube 1995 in Bratislava, and was met with great acclaim in the art and film scene.
Animation
43min
12
DE
The great adventure of little Duke Ernst – a powerful examination of power, exile and cultural alienation.
Duke Ernst is robbed of his castle as a result of a conspiracy and sent on the first crusade as penance. His journey takes him far beyond known borders into a world full of wonders and dangers. Accompanied by brave knights, he crosses the sea to reach the Orient, where he encounters numerous mythical creatures in his search for the legendary carbuncle: the one-legged Sciopods, the winged Ariasperns, the tiny Pygmies and the enigmatic birds Roch.
During his adventures, he finds unexpected allies in the mysterious Aggripinians – and falls in love with their princess. With her, his newfound friends and the precious carbuncle, he finally returns to his homeland, where he faces his destiny.
Lutz Dammbeck's interpretation of the medieval Duke Ernst story first took shape in sketches during his time in the GDR. The film combines historical motifs with surreal imagery and questions the crusading spirit and the encounter between cultures. The multi-layered animation reflects the aesthetics of medieval tapestries and book illustrations, while also playing with contemporary experimental techniques.
With DUKE ERNEST, Dammbeck creates a haunting examination of power, exile and cultural otherness. His film was shown at several international festivals, including the Prix Danube 1995 in Bratislava, and was met with great acclaim in the art and film scene.