Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Werner Herzog Reflects on Fear and Spirituality in Adventure

2/28/2026

50 12 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In a recent interview series, Werner Herzog discusses fear and his experiences.
Herzog recounts his encounter with mountaineer Reinhold Messner.
Messner was deeply affected by his brother's tragedy on Nanga Parbat.
He says he no longer practices religion and respects those seeking a connection with a higher power.
He recounts a near-fatal incident filming in the Karakoram.

History

Historical Context

The Nanga Parbat tragedy in 1970 marked a pivotal moment for climber Reinhold Messner, whose brother Günther died during their descent from the summit. This event profoundly influenced Messner's philosophy on mountaineering, leading him to become the first person to climb all 14 eight-thousanders without supplemental oxygen by 1986, reshaping the climbing community's views on risk and resilience.

1 of 2

Story summary

In a recent interview series, Werner Herzog discusses fear and his experiences.
Herzog recounts his encounter with mountaineer Reinhold Messner.
Messner was deeply affected by his brother's tragedy on Nanga Parbat.
He says he no longer practices religion and respects those seeking a connection with a higher power.
He recounts a near-fatal incident filming in the Karakoram.

1 / 2