Unraveling Kafka: Behind the Curtain of the Miniseries

Amid the shadowy labyrinth of Prague's streets, "Kafka" envelops its audience in an aura of mystery and aesthetic intrigue, blending the surreal and the existential in a haunting narrative.

"Kafka," starring Joel Basman, is a mesmerizing dive into the enigmatic world of author Franz Kafka that is captivating from start to finish. This German TV miniseries masterfully blends biography with a unique visual storytelling style, making it a standout piece in contemporary television.

This German TV miniseries intricately weaves a tale where reality and illusion blur, reflecting the existential dread and bureaucratic absurdity that Franz Kafka so masterfully portrayed in his literary works. From the hauntingly desolate cityscapes to the enigmatic characters that inhabit them, each element serves to draw viewers deeper into the unsettling world of its famous protagonist, Franz Kafka. Be prepared for a journey that challenges perceptions and leaves a lingering impression of unease.

Kafka Brought to Life

At first glance, I was unsure of Joel Basman portraying Franz Kafka. Kafka is often envisioned as a dark, brooding figure, embodying the weight of his existential and surreal narratives. Given his literary works and drawings, it's easy to frame Kafka with a far more somber lens. Basman's interpretation, however, introduces an element of whimsy that seemed initially out of place, yet just minutes into the first episode, focusing on his friendship with Max Brod (David Kross), I was entranced. Basman's portrayal of Kafka as a young man is refreshing and adds depth to his character, making him relatable and engaging.

You might imagine having a coffee with Kafka and indulging in existential dread, but Basman feels more like someone you'd invite to brunch to get day-drunk with and roast your friends - but after considering Kafka's biographies on top of his works, I realize Basman's presence really does fit. From what we can tell from Reiner Stach's extensive volumes of Kafka's life story is that while he was suffering from depression and anxiety - and, let's face it, he was possibly on the spectrum as well - Kafka was noted by his peers as being one of the funniest, kindest people they knew. Think Robin Williams, Kate Spade, Anthony Bourdain...you get the idea. A quick-witted sense of humor is usually a byproduct of a malaise that manifests from a tortured psyche.

If you know someone who is hilarious but doesn't seem to be struggling internally, chances are they're just exceptionally good at hiding it. This isn't a groundbreaking revelation if you've read Max Brod's biography of Kafka or the three-volume set by Reiner Stach in addition to other related works by other authors and academics. Just look at the lives of most comedians and gifted creatives, and you'll usually find a troubled past. Kafka's dark and incisive humor surfaces as a means of coping, allowing him to navigate the complexities of his mind and the overwhelming world he lived in.

As the series progresses, it becomes evident that Basman’s portrayal is both a quicksilver and mindful depiction of Kafka’s complex personality. His performance captures the essence of Kafka's works while highlighting the underlying humor that often accompanies despair, fear, and melancholy. This nuanced portrayal enriches the narrative, bringing a multidimensional view of Kafka that resonates profoundly with viewers.

Basman's portrayal of Kafka is nothing short of extraordinary. He embodies the writer's complex psyche with such authenticity and nuance that it's impossible not to be drawn into Kafka's labyrinthine mind. Basman’s performance alone is a reason to watch this series.

The Hype Man

The first episode of "Kafka" immediately delves into the profound friendship between Franz Kafka and Max Brod, a relationship that would ultimately shape the legacy of Kafka’s work. From the first scenes, the synergy between Joel Basman and David Kross is palpable, capturing the intricate dynamic between Kafka and his closest confidant. Max Brod, portrayed with earnest sensitivity by Kross, is more than just a supporting character; he is the custodian of Kafka's literary genius, the man who defied Kafka’s wishes by ensuring his works were not consigned to oblivion.

*Eventually, everyone leaves the post office…*

Max’s unwavering belief in Kafka’s talent is depicted through poignant interactions and heartfelt dialogues. The show artfully balances the intellectual camaraderie and emotional depth of their friendship, while also highlighting the weighty responsibility Brod felt towards Kafka’s unfinished manuscripts. The episode subtly foreshadows the eventual moral dilemma Brod faced, showcasing Brod's resolute decision to save Kafka’s writings from destruction. This act of preservation cements Brod’s role as both a friend and savior of Kafka’s literary heritage.

A particularly chilling moment in the episode is an exchange reminiscent of the chilling conclusion of Kafka's "The Trial", marking the shadow of authoritarianism that loomed over Kafka's life. A Nazi soldier on the last train out of Prague eerily echoes Kafka’s prophetic words. This line, embedded with existential dread, serves as a haunting parallel to Josef K's final moments in "The Trial." Such juxtapositions powerfully underline the pervasive themes of persecution and absurdity in Kafka’s works, providing an unsettling yet poignant reflection on his life experiences that felt quite prophetic to Brod, who escaped with his wife from Prague to Tel Aviv in 1939.

Through meticulous storytelling and stellar performances, the first episode of "Kafka" lays a strong foundation. It presents a narrative that is deeply rooted in historical context while capturing the essence of Kafka's enduring friendship with Max Brod.

Kafka in Love

The series also delves into the complexities of Kafka's relationships with women, particularly with Felice Bauer (Episode 2), Milena Jesenská (Episode 5), and Dora Diamant (Episode 6) - but also reminds us all that he was a regular at brothels in Prague and other cities he visited while on holiday. The way Kafka in love is depicted on screen is both tragic and tender, providing a deeper understanding of Kafka's personal struggles and how his own struggles with intimacy and deep-seated desires influenced his writing.

*A frustrated Felice and an ambivalent Franz.*

Felice Bauer (Lia von Blarer), Kafka's first fiancée, plays a pivotal role in Episode 2. Their relationship, marked by intense correspondence, is depicted with a blend of tenderness and tension. The show delves into their rocky engagement, portraying Felice as a modern, independent woman whose practicality often clashed with Kafka's neuroticism and existential dread. The letters between Kafka and Felice come to life on-screen, showcasing the depth of their connection, the intensity of their emotional exchanges, and the eventual unraveling of their engagement not once, but twice. The episode provides insight into how Felice's grounded nature and determination influenced Kafka's writing, particularly in his works that explore the themes of alienation and the complexities of intimate relationships. Through their dynamic, the viewer gains a clearer understanding of the internal struggles that Kafka faced when reconciling his need for companionship with his overwhelming fear of intimacy.

Episode 5 focuses on Kafka's passionate relationship with Milena Jesenská (Liv Lisa Fries), a writer and journalist who was his lover and confidante. If you're familiar with "Letters to Milena," you'll surely hear some of its echoes. The episode is lovely and visually exquisite, reflecting the depth of their emotional and intellectual connection. Unlike his relationship with Felice, Kafka's bond with Milena is portrayed as far more fiery and consuming. Milena's vivacious and spirited personality deeply affects Kafka, drawing out his vulnerabilities and passions. Liv Lisa Fries truly does a fantastic job in this role, really bringing the character of Milena, who became a generational icon, to life. Her on-screen chemistry with Joel Basman adds another layer to Kafka's internal conflict between his desires and fears.

Their correspondence, marked by profound mutual understanding and admiration, is a focal point of the episode, revealing how Milena's influence helped Kafka explore and express the complexities of his inner world. The episode highlights the ways in which Milena inspired and challenged Kafka, pushing him to confront his deepest anxieties and fears about love, life, and his creative expression. Through Milena, the series depicts Kafka's attempts at emotional vulnerability and the profound impact she had on his personal and literary life.

This episode also stands out for the musical component. Here, one can feel he had met his match, yet her ambivalence over leaving her husband for Kafka leaves him with no real option other than to do what he often did best - to retreat into writing. The sexual tension is palpable, as are the conflicts and confrontations that mark their tumultuous relationship. There is a moment when Milena snaps and reads Kafka for filth, highlighting everything he probably never clearly saw himself, yet his smile at the end reminds me that he was also a bit of a masochist.

Dora Diamant (Tamara Romera Ginés), Kafka's last lover, is the central figure in Episode 6. The episode portrays the final year of Kafka's life, spent mostly with Dora near the Baltic Sea, Berlin, and a sanatorium in Kierling near Vienna. Dora is depicted as a nurturing and devoted partner, yet is highlighted as more of a mere caretaker of convenience than a lover, which contradicts the pathos in the latest Kafka-inspired film, Die Herrlichkeit des Lebens (The Glory of Life), which is far more saccharine. Dora, in essence, was capable of providing Kafka with the affection and stability he had long sought - all while not having to give much in return.

Unlike his previous relationships, Kafka's connection with Dora is shown as more serene and comforting despite his deteriorating health. The series depicts their time together as a rare period of relative peace and contentment for Kafka. The portrayal of Dora as a source of strength and consolation for Kafka allows the viewers to witness a more vulnerable side of the often-tormented writer. This episode poignantly encapsulates the enduring impact of Kafka's final relationship on his well-being and artistic legacy, offering a bittersweet conclusion to the story of a man perpetually caught between despair and a fleeting grasp at happiness.

In Kafka's writing - both his literary works and his love letters - the reader is perpetually confined in the realm of Vorlust, or foreplay, a concept Sigmund Freud identifies as the crucial element of all aesthetic works. Freud further explains that when foreplay becomes an end in itself, we enter the realm of perversion, as the individual remains fixated on the journey, never reaching the 'proper' sexual goal. Conversely, the systematic withholding of interpretative certainty constitutes an act of sadism. Kafka meticulously orchestrates a dialectical tension between anticipation, suspense, and delayed gratification, thereby reclaiming a sense of control within the aesthetic domain amidst the unsettling fluidity of social structures and symbols.

This underlying theme of sadomasochism manifests vividly in his exploration of human relationships and personal angst, enriching the narrative complexity of his characters and their interactions in addition to the constant tension he built up in writing to women in his romantic grasp. I would have loved to see this topic explored further - not to mention a bit more exploration into his documented homoerotic fantasies - but perhaps it was wishful thinking on my part. The Pachinger sidebar in Episode 1 was a breadcrumb that could, no doubt, take you down quite a sensual rabbit hole that is bizarrely sidestepped so casually by Kafka scholars.

While the Metamorphosis animation was quite a brilliant add-on, there is an element of the theme of sadomasochism that perhaps any reader might miss. The significant picture that insect protagonist Gregor Samsa cherishes, “a lady done up in a fur hat and a fur boa, sitting upright and raising up against the viewer a heavy fur muff in which her whole forearm had disappeared,” has inspired countless psychological interpretations. The subject in the picture appears to be influenced by a book that was widely popular during Kafka’s time and a favorite among Kafka and his peers. The book, Venus in Furs, was authored by Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, from whose name the term masochism originates. In Venus in Furs, what name does the main character temporarily take on as Wanda's submissive? Gregor. Even the surname Samsa could be considered a partial anagram of Sacher-Masoch. The name Samsa is similar to Kafka in its arrangement of vowels and consonants: Both names consist of five letters, with the S in Samsa occupying the same position as the K in Kafka, and the A appearing in the second and fifth positions in both.

If you're feeling spicy, read Venus in Furs and go back to read Letters to Milena. There are Venus in Furs references throughout.

Daddy Issues

Episode 3 of the "Kafka" miniseries, aptly titled "Family," delves deep into the developmental impact of a dysfunctional family dynamic within the context of a privileged upbringing. Franz Kafka's relationship with his father, Hermann Kafka (Nicholas Ofczarek), is at the heart of this episode, highlighting the deep-seated tension and complex emotions that shaped Franz’s psyche in early childhood development, leading to his literary output.

The episode vividly portrays the possible manifestations of dread, a recurring theme in Kafka's life and works. Franz's father is depicted as a towering, authoritarian figure whose clinical narcissism has a profound effect on his son's self-esteem and mental well-being. This dynamic is poignantly illuminated through references to Kafka's "Letter to His Father," which serves as a cornerstone for understanding their strained relationship. In this heartfelt and raw letter, Kafka articulates his feelings of inadequacy and the overwhelming shadow his father cast over him, shedding light on the intolerable pressure and emotional neglect he endured.

However, as seen in his writings and his biographies, there seemed to be an element of longing for affection from his mother, Julie Kafka (Marie-Lou Sellem), who was running the family business alongside the father and often served as a passive figure who didn't exactly protect the Kafka children from the father's line of fire. The Kafka household maintained a team of cooks, nannies, and staff who were seen as transient figures, offering no real sense of tangible affection or unconditional love. This lack of genuine emotional connection played a prominent role in Kafka's struggle with his mental health and relationships throughout his life.

The "Family" episode is a poignant reminder that our early experiences shape us in ways we may never fully understand, and it highlights the importance of acknowledging and addressing familial issues before they become ingrained patterns in our own lives. It also serves as a testament to the resilience and creativity that can arise from such turbulent beginnings, as seen through Kafka's literary brilliance despite the tumultuous dynamics within his family. "Family" does an exceptional job of presenting the psychological and existential dilemmas that Franz faced. It illustrates how his upbringing, marred by a domineering father and high societal expectations, contributed to the dualities, complexities, and depth found in his literary creations.

This episode surely adds a level of depth to understanding the figure behind the books, showcasing how even the most mundane details of one’s upbringing can significantly influence one's psyche and creative output. It is an essential aspect to explore for anyone interested in Kafka, as it reveals a more intimate and vulnerable side to the writer, adding another layer to his enigmatic persona.

A Master in Bureaucracy

Episode 4 zeroes in on where Kafka gets his understanding of intricate, complex systems, arbitrary regulations, and crushing bureaucracy - because he was an expert at it.

Kafka's expertise in law and his exceptional performance as an attorney played a critical role in his life, particularly during the tumultuous period of World War I. Working for the Workers Accident Insurance Institute in Prague, Kafka quickly distinguished himself as a highly skilled and dedicated professional. When there was a complex case that seemed almost impossible to win, they deployed Kafka for the win. His acumen in navigating complex legal and bureaucratic matters earned him a reputation as an indispensable asset to the organization.

Given his pivotal role, Kafka was deemed so essential that he was exempt from military service during WWI despite his desire to enlist. The insurance institute argued, and the authorities concurred, that Kafka’s legal proficiency and deep understanding of intricate regulatory frameworks were paramount to maintaining the bureaucratic machine, especially in such challenging times. His contribution ensured the institute continued to operate efficiently, safeguarding workers' rights, rehabilitation for WWI Veterans, and welfare amidst the chaos of war. This exemption not only underscores Kafka’s remarkable professional abilities but also sheds light on the profound impact of his work beyond his literary legacy.

Kafka's profound expertise in the realm of law and bureaucracy undoubtedly sculpted the hauntingly complex worlds he depicted in his literature, a fact often overshadowed by the focus on his personal and familial struggles. The term "Kafkaesque," now synonymous with nightmarish labyrinthine systems and absurd, surreal situations, does not solely arise from Kafka’s interactions with external bureaucratic forces, but also reflects his deep, intimate understanding of such structures.

His everyday wrestling with convoluted legal cases and regulatory frameworks provided him with a rich reservoir of scenarios where helpless individuals are ensnared in the relentless gears of indifferent systems. This was not merely the projection of an aggrieved citizen but the articulation of someone profoundly aware of the mechanisms and intricacies that render these systems both inescapable and illogical. Kafka's brilliance lay in his ability to infuse his narrative worlds with a realism born from genuine professional insight, transforming his lived bureaucratic experience into a universal exploration of alienation and existential dread. This dual expertise—both as a victim of expectations and an expert within bureaucratic machinery—enabled Kafka to craft narratives that resonate with powerful authenticity, forever imparting his name to the uniquely disquieting genre that bears it.

A Hunger Artist

Another subtly hinted at throughout the series is the contradictory relationship he had with food and the impact of his intimacy issues on his mental health. In the first episode, as well as others in the series, his Fletcherization of food and peculiar chewing style are depicted, hinting at an eating disorder and control issues.

Kafka's correspondence reveals a man who was both fascinated and repelled by the idea of food. His letters to Felice Bauer often detailed elaborate descriptions of meals, yet Kafka himself adhered to a strict vegetarian diet and suffered from numerous digestive ailments. This obsession with food parallels his relationships with women—an arena fraught with anxiety and avoidance. Kafka's letters to his lovers, especially Felice and Milena, are filled with expressions of fervent passion coupled with a fear of intimacy. Watching him chew his food was quite the sight - which was commented on in almost every episode - rendering him a Marquis de Sade of mastication, if you will. It was painful, but you can't get away from the element of his desire for control. Food and love were always, in fact, about his need for control.

*The delicate balance at the family table.*

Kafka viewed food as a source of both pleasure and repulsion, much like his interactions with women and sex. His relentless pursuit of idealized love and the "nourishment" he needed in his spirit was often thwarted by his self-imposed restrictions, the guilt of consuming, and his insecurities. The series portrays these contradictions with a delicacy that honors Kafka's complex psyche, showing viewers the nuances of his internal struggles. Food and nourishment, much like love and intimacy, became a prism through which Kafka's existential dilemmas were articulated, adding another layer of depth to his already intricate character. Through this, the show captures the essence of Kafka's fragmented world, presenting a holistic picture of someone perpetually at odds with his desires and fears.

All of these elements are subtly interwoven into the narrative, shedding light on his need for control in a life otherwise dictated by external pressures and expectations. His struggle with his identity adds another layer of complexity as he grapples with various intersecting external forces while trying to carve out his own path.

The interplay of power, personal identity, and existential angst is masterfully depicted while playfully showcasing his quirks, making the entire miniseries not only a glimpse into his life but a profound exploration of the influences that shaped one of literature's most enigmatic figures.

Wes Meets Kafkaesque

One of the most striking aspects of "Kafka" is its aesthetic and cinematography, which hints at the whimsical and meticulously crafted worlds of Wes Anderson. The careful attention to detail in every frame, the vibrant yet muted color palette, and the symmetrical compositions all highlight this distinctive style, yet remains in line with what we can visualize from Kafka's works. This visual approach does more than please the eye; it breathes life into Kafka's biography, making each scene feel like a living, breathing illustration of his world. Occasionally, characters also interact with the omnipresent narrator, adding to the charming nature of the show’s atmosphere.

The series masterfully employs a visual aesthetic that feels deeply intertwined with Kafka's literary style. The meticulous framing of each shot often mirrors the precision and analytical nature of Kafka's prose, where every word is carefully chosen to convey layered meanings. The series makes use of shadows and light interplay to create an almost claustrophobic atmosphere when incorporating his actual stories and the life events that inspired them, reflecting the inner turmoil and confinement Kafka felt within his own mind and societal norms. This intricate dance of darkness and illumination not only establishes the mood but also serves as a visual metaphor for the duality present in Kafka's life and works.

Color plays a crucial role in the cinematography, with the palette carefully selected to evoke specific emotions. Muted earth tones dominate the scenes depicting Kafka's bedroom, and the brighter lights of the living space lend a sense of the predictability of chaos. In contrast, scenes, where Kafka engages with his literary ambitions or romantic interests, are often washed in warmer hues, suggesting fleeting moments of passion and escape from his otherwise bleak existences. This strategic use of color not only enhances the narrative but also envelops the viewer in the emotional and psychological landscape of Kafka's world.

Further enhancing the atmospheric richness is the series' use of set design and props, which draw heavily on the early 20th-century Bohemian aesthetic. The details, from the ornate yet somber architecture to the period-appropriate furnishings, transport viewers to Kafka's Prague, creating an immersive historical backdrop. The meticulous recreation of his environments—from the confines of his family home to the offices where he toiled away at his day job—provides a tangible sense of place. This attention to mise-en-scène allows viewers to fully grasp the weight of Kafka’s daily existence and the stark contrast between his longing for intellectual, creative, and spiritual freedom and the crushing mundanity of his reality.

The Enduring Legacy of Kafka

The series delicately intertwines elements of Kafka's personal history—his relationships and friendships, his bureaucratic career, and his existential musings—into a narrative that feels both intimate and expansive. It’s evident that the creators have a deep respect for Kafka’s legacy (Reiner Stach also consulted on set), as they weave these details into the fabric of the story with the utmost care and creativity.

Overall, "Kafka" is a must-watch for anyone interested in Franz Kafka or simply looking for a visually stunning and thought-provoking series. Joel Basman's portrayal of Kafka is undoubtedly a highlight, but the entire production - from the storytelling style to the cinematography and impeccable acting - makes this miniseries a standout piece of television that will leave a lasting impact on its viewers. As a personal aside, I have binged this series quite a few times already in the span of a little over a month since stumbling upon it. I was already a fan of Kafka, which is evident in my art and writing, but this TV miniseries has me revisiting everything I've ever read about him and everything by him.

In summary, "Kafka" is a visually stunning, brilliantly acted, and thoughtfully crafted series that offers a fresh, engaging perspective on one of literature's most fascinating figures—highly recommended for fans of biographical dramas and especially those who have been enchanted and captivated by Kafka's prose.

In every frame and story arc, "Kafka" masterfully immerses the audience into the hauntingly beautiful chaos of Kafka's mind, leaving us with a profound sense of wonder and a deep appreciation for the enigmatic labyrinth of his literary universe. Truly, this series embodies the spirit of Kafka himself—complex, mesmerizing, and eternally thought-provoking.