MOVIE REVIEW
Reviewed by Saba Sheikh
Loving Vincent is the latest biographical film in the animated genre. It is the first film to be fully oil painted by hand in over 60,000 frames using the distinctive style of the 19th century Dutch post-impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh. The film revolves around the mystery and immense tragedy surrounding the eccentric artists’ untimely demise. It originated as a seven-minute short film but the idea was later expanded. Directors, Hugh Welchman and Dorota Kobiela, took great care in going through the personal letters of Van Gogh in order to learn about his life. What sets this movie apart from other biographies of van Gogh is that many of his famous paintings have been recreated and incorporated into the movie. Hence its unique visuals are what make for the breathtaking imagery. The flashbacks are shown in sombre monochromes while the current events are in vivid colours.
The film uses quite a rich and vibrant palette, true to van Gogh’s approach, despite its underlying melancholia. The film is set in France a year after the artists’ death. It follows the journey of the protagonist Armand Roland who is the son of van Gogh’s postman. Armand is put to the task of delivering the artist’s last letter to his late brother’s family. Hence, the story spans over Armand’s journey as he tries to make sense of the unusual circumstances of Vincent’s apparent suicide. The film has successfully portrayed the genius artist as a deeply misunderstood and isolated man who struggled to find association, affection and appreciation in his family since childhood, but failed to fit in. It is suggested that his parents’ lack of affection in his upbringing might have translated into his emotional insecurities as an adult.
Even though van Gogh had mental health issues, he had been quite tranquil in the weeks before his suicide. This also raises the important question: was his death was a murder or suicide? The bitter tragedy of Vincent’s life was he desperately tried to prove himself in a time where people didn’t appreciate his work.
Instead, he was misunderstood and admonished for his eccentricity and for being different. His hard work became profitless. In his short lifetime he painted over 2000 artworks; having sold only one. The irony lies in the fact that the depth of his ingenuity was apprehended after his death. His posthumous fame is almost tragic. Overall, the film serves to pay tribute to his legacy. The film encourages audience to cherish and celebrate his life and the art he left behind.
