"Manitu's Canoe" - Nostalgic Laughter and Emotional Nostalgia
In the world of German cinema, "Das Kanu des Manitu" (The Canoe of Manitu) stands out as a comedic western adventure parody that continues the story of Abahachi, the Apache chief, and his white blood brother Ranger. Directed by and starring Michael "Bully" Herbig, this film is a much-anticipated sequel to the original 2001 hit, "Der Schuh des Manitu."
The plot revolves around the legendary "Canoe of Manitu," said to make its owner immortal. The villainous oil prince, Sky du Mont, seeks to steal the canoe for business purposes and hires a gang led by Jessica Schwarz. Abahachi and Ranger, lured into a trap and facing a death sentence, are rescued just in time by their loyal friend Dimitri, a lovable Greek restaurateur, and his new assistant Mary.
The film is a blend of slapstick comedy and heartfelt moments, featuring a series of comic and action-packed events. It delivers "80 minutes of nonsense and a sudden emotional turn," as one critic puts it, with both laughter and a powerful message. The comedy is broad and physical, typical of Herbig's style, but the film also aspires to bring people together and inspire reflection.
The main cast includes Michael Bully Herbig as Abahachi (and his twin brother), Christian Tramitz as Ranger, Rick Kavanian as Dimitri, Jasmin Schwiers as Mary, and other actors including Jessica Schwarz, Friedrich Mücke, and Sky DuMont. Notable appearances include Alan Tafoya, a Jicarilla Apache actor, in an emotional scene shot in Santa Fe.
The film also pays homage to various sources of inspiration, with parodies of 1960s Westerns based on Karl May's novels, "Indiana Jones," the works of French filmmaker Louis de Funès, and a children's film. Winnetouch, a character played by Michael Bully Herbig, exhibits superpowers in the film, and returns in the sequel as the owner of a dance and fencing school.
"Das Kanu des Manitu" is filled with nostalgia, as it feels like a continuation of the original film. The soundtrack, composed by Ralf Wengenmayr, who also scored the original "Der Schuh des Manitu," has been released and features original music that complements the film’s tone of parody and adventure.
As for the future, there is a possibility of a sequel to "Das Kanu des Manitu," but it is uncertain. Regardless, this film stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the original cult hit, providing laughter, emotion, and a touch of nostalgia for fans of the western genre.
The service provided by the film offers an 80-minute blend of slapstick comedy and heartfelt moments, complete with parodies of movies and TV shows from various genres as entertainment. The villain, Sky du Mont, intends to steal the Canoe of Manitu for business purposes, putting the lives of Abahachi, Ranger, and their friends at risk.
