While the cliché of the suffering artist might be a myth, history has witnessed magnificent men and women who have experienced tortured lives and despair. However, their creative, brilliant minds flourished in an unhindered rage for life expressed through paintings and earning establishment as timelessly imperative.
Movies that depict such fascinating lives of artists are guaranteed to captivate audiences. Films about lives of the past greats serve fascinating, sometimes unsettling insights, and anyone who observes will be riveted.
Here is our curated list of the top five movies about art and artists that explore and capture the lives of the extraordinary.
- At Eternity’s Gate (2018)
Serving an intolerable emotional turmoil and astounding artistic inspiration, “At Eternity’s Gate” dramatizes the struggling last years of Vincent van Gogh’s life. The film finds actor William Dafoe pulling off an acting mastery, befitting the remarkable wonders of van Gogh’s unique vision of life and distinctive art style.
- Genius: Picasso (2018)
Focusing on a brilliant innovator in art and illustrating the turbulent life of the 20th century’s most influential and controversial artist, “Genius: Picasso” is an in-depth anthology stretching ten chapters.
Brilliantly portrayed by Antonio Banderas, Genius: Picasso explores the inspiration, the art and the master behind it.
- Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)
Telling a story of the extraordinary events surrounding the creation of the famed painting that goes by the same name, “Girl with a Pearl Earring,” portrays Johannes Vermeer’s mysterious muse and her influence on Vermeer’s artistic life.
This film presents a fictional account of the artwork, the girl and the artist himself. Scarlett Johansson’s enthralling performance in the movie earned her Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations for Best Actress in a Leading Role.
- The Monuments Men (2014)
Centred around a mysterious WWII platoon, “The Monuments Men” is a film showcasing a significant treasure hunt in art. It is a true story portraying the impossible feat of rescuing artistic masterpieces to preserve 1,000 years of culture and history.
The merry band of notable character actors makes this a worthy watch for diverse audiences and a captivating history lesson for art enthusiasts.
- The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965)
Revolving around the trauma, ecstasy and politics surrounding the painting of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, the film is a tribute to the incredible feat of Michelangelo. This biographic chronicle of the Renaissance painter takes us on a journey through the challenges and accusations he faced and the tragedy of becoming blind for a period.
Some notable mentions include Frida (2002), Little Ashes (2008) and Surviving Picasso (1996).
We aren’t scarce of truly masterful movies and shows inspired by art and artists. At King’s Framing & Art Gallery - the best online art supply store, we care about education, expression and envisioning of art. Our curated list of top movies about art will let you learn about the lives and works of great artists.
Do these art films and shows inspire you? Avail professional art supplies online from King’s Framing & Art Gallery and embark on a journey of creative amelioration.
