Whether you’re an artist looking for inspiration or somebody with a deep appreciation for this visual medium, these movies are just the watch for those who wish to glance back at the lives of some of the greatest creative minds- or even their techniques!
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Loving Vincent (2017)
Image: Loving Vincent/Trademark Films
An experimental autobiographical animated film about one of history’s most famous artists, Vincent Van Gog, “Loving Vincent” is the world’s first completely painted film. All the frames were painted, and developing and carrying out this technique took six years. “Loving Vincent” is not just a touching autobiography, it is an artistic feat, making it a true love letter to the late Vincent Van Gogh.
Frida (2002)
Image: Frida/Lions Gate Films
An autobiographical film about the personal and professional life of renowned female Mexican surrealist painter Frida Kahlo, it vividly captures the 46 years of Kahlo’s life. From her artmaking process to channeling her pain from an injury into her work, to her love affairs, particularly her tumultuous relationship with husband Diego Rivera, “Frida” takes us through the life of a fantastic, one of a kind woman.
Big Eyes (2014)
Image: Big Eyes/Silverwood Films
An autobiographical comedy-drama directed by none other than the eccentric Tim Burton, “Big Eyes” is about the life of American artist Margaret Keane, who was known for her portraits of people depicted with peculiarly “big eyes”. It explores her troubles with her husband, who took credit for her work. It’s a remarkable, well-directed film, clearly reflecting the plight of female artists at the time.
The Agony and Ecstasy (1965)
Image: The Agony and Ecstasy/International Classics
A historical drama, “The Agony and Ecstasy” explores famous Italian sculptor Michaelangelo’s struggles with painting the Sistine Chapel at the command of the Pope. Although the film ignores and erases the truth of Michaelangelo’s sexuality, it’s an informative work.
Pollock (2000)
Image: Pollock/Sony Pictures
A film about artist Jackson Pollock, and how his life changed upon meeting artist Lee Krasner, Pollock boasts visually stunning art direction and a confident script. Importantly, viewers are allowed to witness what partly made Pollock’s abstract paintings famous- the showiness of his artistic technique.
The Cool School (2008)
Image: The Cool School/Tremolo Productions
A docu-film about the beginnings of the LA contemporary art scene, “The Cool School” chronicles multiple popular artists, from Ed Kienholz to Ed Ruscha to Wallace Berman and Robert Irwin, among others, with a focus on the Ferus Gallery, where they all started off. Containing rare footage from the time and chill music, the documentary is a breeze to watch- fun and relaxing.
Did you enjoy these films? Got any more suggestions? Leave a comment below!
Cover Image: Pollock/Sony Pictures
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