Review of Lust for Life (1956) by Jeff P — 24 May 2018

This is an amazingly accurate and beautiful biographical picture produced by and starring Kirk Douglas. It is filled with beautiful stills of some of the best pictures of Van Gogh. Douglas researched Van Gogh's life, visiting Holland and France where Van Gogh spent much of his life and painted virtually all of his paintings.

This is not the typical Hollywood biopic of the 50s and earlier. It is a well-researched work of art based on a book by the same title. Dozens of museums and individual collectors around the world were used in the production, providing gorgeous stills throughout the picture.

You will also find characters from his life appearing as he painted them, and subjects and locations painted by him. The final scene was filmed in the exact location where Van Gogh took his own life. Brilliant picture.

Oscar nomination to Douglas (Best Actor) and an Oscar winner (Supporting Actor) to Anthony Quinn who played Gaugin. Great movie!