Review of Lust for Life (1956) by Cinema F — 15 Oct 2009
Who hasn't heard of the (supposedly) crazy Dutchman who cut off his ear, and then shot himself in a wheat field while painting his last work?
This film spans the last seven years of Vincent Van Gogh's life (c1883-90), the period of his almost unbearably intense development as an artist. Much of it was filmed at the actual locations, as well as many of his original paintings are shown and the film faithfully recreates many of the scenes in some of his most famous works.
The performances by Douglas and Quinn (as Gaugin) and the supporting actors reflect the level of commitment of all those who were involved in the production. Gauguin, another eccentric, was far more famous at the time than Van Gogh, and his approach to art was diametrically opposed to Van Gogh's. He painted what was in his mind, not the glories of nature that absorbed Van Gogh.
Touching and tragic, this is a glorious, brilliant film that memorializes the world's greatest painter.
This review of Lust for Life (1956) was written by Cinema F on 15 Oct 2009.
Lust for Life has generally received positive reviews.
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