Philosophical Exploration of "Wings of

Desire"
Philosophical Analysis of "Wings of Desire"
"Wings of Desire," directed by Wim Wenders, is a profound cinematic exploration of
existentialism, memory, and the human desire for connection. Through the eyes of
angels who invisibly observe the lives of mortals in Berlin, the film delves into themes
of love, loneliness, and the essence of human experience.

Influence of Walter Benjamin and Paul Klee

The film draws heavily from the philosophical ideas of Walter Benjamin, particularly
his interpretation of Paul Klee’s painting “Angelus Novus” as the Angel of History.
Benjamin’s “Angel of History” is caught in a storm blowing from Paradise, which
propels him into the future while he looks back at the past, witnessing a continuous
catastrophe. This metaphor mirrors the angels in "Wings of Desire" who observe
human life's beauty and sorrow without the power to alter its course. The
philosophical underpinning here critiques historicism's linear progression narrative,
showcasing history as a series of disasters, emphasizing the need for
acknowledgment and repair over mere forward movement.

Jungian Psychology
The film also aligns with Jungian psychology, reflecting on the collective unconscious
and individuation. Angels, embodying the collective consciousness, glide through the
Berlin Wall as if it were intangible, symbolizing not only the physical barrier’s eventual
fall but also hinting at the psychological barriers between individuals and within
oneself. The transformation from angel to human, experienced by the protagonist
Damiel, represents the Jungian concept of individuation – the process of integrating
various aspects of the self.

Philosophical Quotes
A profound quote from the film, attributed to the character of Damiel, reflects the
existential quest for meaning and identity: “When the child was a child, It choked on
spinach, on peas, on rice pudding, and on steamed cauliflower, and eats all of those
now, and not just because it has to.” This line from Peter Handke's "Song of
Childhood" speaks to the theme of growth, change, and acceptance of life's full
spectrum, encapsulating a moment of realization and acceptance of human
limitations and the beauty in embracing them.

Conclusion
"Wings of Desire" is a testament to the power of cinema to explore and express
complex philosophical ideas. Its intertwining of existential themes, together with the
influences of Walter Benjamin and Carl Jung, crafts a narrative that is both
intellectually stimulating and deeply moving, offering viewers a chance to reflect on
their own lives and the boundaries that define them.