Review of Loving Vincent (2017) by Bruce F — 31 Oct 2017

LOVING VINCENT-2017(PG-13)-Oct. 27.

By:Clem The Movie Guy.

What was originally intended to be a seven-minute short film evolved into a full-length feature uniquely exploring the tragic story of Vincent Van Gogh?s death through the use of hand-painted frames. The film took over two years to make utilizing the skills of 125 professional artists who painted nearly a thousand canvases to create the 6,500 frames that comprise Loving Vincent, the first fully hand painted animated feature film. Loving Vincent takes place a year after the death of Vincent Van Gogh (Robert Gulaczyk.) Vincent?s good friend Postmaster Roulin (Chris O?Dowd) asks his son Armand (Douglas Booth) to hand deliver Van Gogh?s last letter to his brother Theo. Armand reluctantly accepts the task & begins a complicated & mysterious journey. After visiting Pere Tanguy (John Sessions) who tells Armand that Theo died shortly after hearing of his brother?s death, Armand heads to Auvers-sur-Olse to the home of Dr. Gachet (Jerome Flynn) who took care Vincent after his release from the asylum. While waiting to see Dr. Gachet, Armand begins conversations with a variety of people who had some interaction with Van Gogh prior to his death ; Adeline Ravoux (Eleanor Tomlinson), the temporary proprietress of the local inn where Vincent was staying, Dr. Gachet? s housekeeper, Louise Chevalier (Helen McCrory), Dr. Gachet?s sheltered daughter Marguerite (Saoirse Ronan), & local boatman (Adan Turner). As each person reveals their version of the events leading up to Vincent?s leading death, Armand begins to question whether Vincent really committed suicide or was murdered. Loving Vincent is directed by the husband & wife team of Dorota Kobiela & Hugh Welchman who co-wrote the screenplay with Jacek Dehnel. They have created a uniquely beautiful tribute to the heartbreaking & compelling story of a true genius?s brief but prolific life. The oil painted animation was stunning with each scene painted in Van Gogh?s signature style. The performances from cast, who performed in front of a green screen, were captivating. Loving Vincent is a film for those who are fans of amazing art & powerful film. MUST-SEE FILM.