Film Lens

Ulrike Ottinger's film 'Prater' presents the history and cultural significance of the Prater amusement park in Vienna. Through interviews with carnies and commentary from both local Austrians and international visitors, the film captures the park's evolution and its role as a vibrant desire machine. The documentary combines contemporary cinematic images with historical documentation, illustrating how the Prater has served as a site of technological innovation and cultural expression.
The film references influential texts by authors such as Elfriede Jelinek, Josef von Sternberg, Erich Kästner, and Elias Canetti, emphasizing the park's impact on literature and music. By transforming the amusement venue into a modern cinema of attractions, 'Prater' celebrates the park's significance in the collective imagination and its enduring legacy in Vienna's cultural landscape.
Why Watch
- •See Vienna's Prater as a cultural landmark.
- •Meet the unique characters of the amusement park.
- •Find out about the park's literary connections.
Did You Know
•The film features interviews with carnies who work at the Prater.
•Influential authors like Elfriede Jelinek and Elias Canetti are referenced.
•The documentary has a runtime of 108 minutes.
Perfect For
Amusement park enthusiastsFans of Austrian cultureLiterature lovers