Review of Lust for Life (1956) by Mark S — 27 May 2012

Vincent Van Gogh (Douglas) is an extremely talented artist, who loves to paint landscapes and still lifes, and has an excellent eye for color. The trouble is, is beneath all of his genius, Van Gogh is anything but happy.

Nobody seems to appreciate his work, and the woman he loves most won't return the adoration, and because of this, he feels very lonely in the world. Except for the fact that his brother offers endless support and friendship, it can't cover the fact that Van Gogh is deeply depressed.

He continues to paint to try to rid of his sorrow, and his life finds a bright spot for a while when he meets a prostitute (Brown) with a baby, but after spending a week with the eccentric and moody Van Gogh, she leaves him.

Once again, Van Gogh buries himself in painting. Through this, he soon meets artist Paul Gaugain (Quinn), and the two strike up a friendship, which just might save him. I was very surprised to find that "Lust for Life" isn't one bit Hollywood.

Aside from the fact that A-lister/heartthrob Kirk Douglas is cast as phenomenal artist Van Gogh, director Vincent Minnelli (of all directors) makes "Lust for Life" realistic. Minnelli obviously has a big appreciation for the artist, and makes sure to get every detail right, whether it be the set design to the actors involved.

Luckily, this pays off, and not only creates a beautiful atmosphere, but he ends up making the film real. Who knew Minnelli could do something other than Hollywood musicals? The film itself isn't too exciting-- let's face it; the only part of Van Gogh's life that's really interesting is the fact that he cut his ear off-- but because the actor's are so good, the acting ends up being the best thing in the movie.

Douglas and Quinn just might give their best performances here-- they not only play their roles with edge, but they embody them. They're both simply superb. Anyhow, "Lust for Life" is superbly acted, written, directed, and photographed.

Recommended.