Art in Movies and Movies About Art
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January 24th 2024
Are you intrigued by films centered around art or movies celebrated for their artistic allure?
Here, we'll explore films that showcase art as a central theme or are recognized for their artistic cinematography.
Explore captivating films centered around art and the lives of artists
"Maestro" released in 2023
The film chronicles the life of a young prodigy, who rises to fame as a renowned conductor. Set against the backdrop of classical music and the intricacies of the human spirit, "Maestro" explores themes of passion, sacrifice, and the pursuit of perfection.
"Woman in Gold" released in 2015
The film recounts the true story of Maria Altmann, an elderly Jewish refugee, portrayed by Helen Mirren, who, with the help of her lawyer, played by Reynolds, embarks on a legal battle to reclaim a famous painting stolen from her family by the Nazis during World War II.
"Midnight in Paris" released in 2011
The film follows a nostalgic screenwriter, played by Owen Wilson, who finds himself transported back to 1920s Paris each night. He encounters famous artists and writers, sparking his own creative journey as he navigates love, art, and the allure of the past.
"Portrait of a Lady on Fire" released in 2019
This French historical drama revolves around a painter, played by Noémie Merlant, tasked with painting a portrait of a young woman, portrayed by Adèle Haenel, without her knowledge. As they spend time together, a forbidden romance blossoms.
“Candyman” released in 2021
The film follows visual artist Anthony McCoy, played by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, who becomes obsessed with the Candyman myth while exploring the gentrified remnants of the area.
"Loving Vincent" released in 2017
"Loving Vincent" is the world's first fully painted feature film. It explores the life and mysterious death of Vincent van Gogh through a series of his own paintings brought to life.
"Mr. Turner" released in 2014
This is a biographical drama that focuses on the life of British painter J.M.W. Turner. The film explores Turner's artistic genius, personal life, and the complexities of his relationships within the 19th-century art world.
"The French Dispatch" released in 2021
This film celebrates artistic expression through Anderson's signature quirky storytelling and visually striking aesthetics.
"National Gallery" released in 2014
This documentary is an exploration of London's National Gallery. It showcases the inner workings of the museum, featuring conversations with curators, conservators, and art enthusiasts, offering insights into the art world.
"At Eternity's Gate" released in 2018
This film focuses on the final years of Vincent van Gogh's life, portrayed by Willem Dafoe.
"Red Notice" released in 2021
The movie blends action, humor, and high-stakes heists against the backdrop of the international art world.
"Frida" released in 2002
The film explores Kahlo's tumultuous life, her passionate relationship with fellow artist Diego Rivera, and her unique artistic vision.
"The Thomas Crown Affair" released in 1999
Starring Pierce Brosnan and Rene Russo, this heist film revolves around a wealthy businessman who orchestrates art thefts for thrills.
"Big Eyes" released in 2014
Directed by Tim Burton, this biographical film tells the story of Margaret Keane, an artist whose husband took credit for her popular paintings of children with big eyes.
"Girl with a Pearl Earring" released in 2003
Based on Tracy Chevalier's novel, the film is a fictionalized account of Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer's creation of the famous painting, starring Scarlett Johansson as the model.
"Black Swan" released in 2010
This psychological thriller explores the world of ballet, focusing on a dancer, played by Natalie Portman, whose pursuit of perfection leads her to a dark and obsessive transformation.
"La La Land" released in 2016
This musical romance follows the love story between a jazz musician, played by Ryan Gosling, and an aspiring actress, portrayed by Emma Stone, as they navigate their careers in Los Angeles.
"Mona Lisa Smile" released in 2003
This movie is about an art history professor hired to teach at Wellesley College, an all-female institution known for its traditional values and conservative norms.
Movies that have stood out to me for their artistic flair
Jungle Cruise
An adventure film set in a jungle where a charismatic riverboat captain takes a daring expedition through dangerous waters to find a mythical tree with healing powers.
The Secret Life of Bees
A moving drama set in the American South during the Civil Rights Movement era, following the journey of a young girl who escapes her troubled home in search of answers about her mother's past. She finds refuge and healing in the home of three beekeeping sisters.
You Before Me
A heartfelt story about the unexpected bond that forms between a young caregiver and a wealthy quadriplegic man whom she is hired to assist.
Grace of Monaco
A captivating biographical film that delves into the life of Grace Kelly, the Hollywood actress who became Princess Grace of Monaco. Set against the backdrop of political turmoil and personal struggles, the movie explores her journey from Hollywood royalty to real-life royalty.
Game Night
A hilarious comedy that takes a wild and chaotic turn when a group of friends' regular game night turns into a real-life mystery-solving adventure.
Top Gun Maverick
A highly anticipated sequel to the iconic Top Gun film, following the story of Maverick as he mentors a new generation of fighter pilots while confronting his past and facing new challenges in the world of aerial combat.
The Nice Guys
A witty and action-packed mystery movie that pairs an unlikely duo, an eccentric private investigator and a tough-talking enforcer. They team up to solve a missing persons case in 1970s Los Angeles.
The Duchess
A sumptuous historical drama that chronicles the turbulent life of Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, during the late 18th century.
Little Women
A heartfelt adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, following the lives and loves of the March sisters, Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy, as they navigate the challenges of womanhood, sisterhood, and societal expectations in Civil War-era America.
Emma
A charming film adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel about the misadventures of Emma Woodhouse, a well-meaning but meddlesome matchmaker in Georgian England.
Pride and Prejudice
An enchanting adaptation of Jane Austen's timeless novel, following the tumultuous romance between Elizabeth Bennet, a spirited young woman from a modest family, and Mr. Darcy, a proud and aloof aristocrat.
Cinderella Man
A gripping biographical drama inspired by the true story of James J. Braddock, a down-on-his-luck boxer who rises from obscurity during the Great Depression to become a symbol of hope and resilience for his family and the nation.
The Hustle
A hilarious comedy that follows two cunning con artists, one high-class and sophisticated, the other streetwise and unrefined, as they join forces to outwit wealthy men on the French Riviera.
Broken City
A gripping thriller that explores the dark underbelly of politics and corruption in modern-day New York City.
Gatsby
A lavish adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel, "The Great Gatsby," set in the roaring 1920s. The film follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby, a wealthy and mysterious man who throws extravagant parties at his Long Island mansion to pursue his love interest.
A Good Year
'A delightful romantic comedy-drama set in the picturesque vineyards of Provence, France. The film follows a successful but disillusioned London banker who inherits a vineyard from his late uncle and embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
Krampus (2015)
A darkly comedic horror film that explores the legend of Krampus, a malevolent creature who punishes naughty children during the Christmas season.
Beauty and the Beast (2017)
A visually stunning live-action adaptation of the beloved fairy tale, following the enchanting romance between Belle, a bright and independent young woman, and the Beast, a cursed prince trapped in a monstrous form.
Memoirs of a Geisha
A visually captivating film that offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the secretive world of geishas in pre-World War II Japan.
Serenity
A hauntingly mysterious thriller set in a tranquil fishing village, where a fishing boat captain's peaceful existence is disrupted by the arrival of his enigmatic ex-wife, who entices him into a dangerous plot involving murder.
Discover movies that showcase art as a central theme
Drama
"Big Eyes" (2014)
Tim Burton's film tells the story of Margaret and Walter Keane, known for their paintings of children with big eyes.
"The Da Vinci Code" (2006)
Based on Dan Brown's novel, the film follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he investigates a murder at the Louvre and uncovers hidden secrets related to art and religion.
Comedy
"Stolen Summer" (2002)
Involves a young boy's quest to do good deeds, including helping an artist in need.
"Art School Confidential" (2006)
Satirical comedy following a talented art student navigating the challenges of art school.
Thriller
"The Square" (2017)
Explores the contemporary art world and the challenges faced by a museum curator.
"The Best Offer" (2013)
Explores high-end art auctions and characters' relationships with art.
Romance
"Moulin Rouge!" (2001)
Revolves around a young poet and a cabaret actress, capturing the bohemian and artistic atmosphere of the era.
"La La Land" (2016)
Celebrates the pursuit of artistic dreams in Hollywood.
"The Red Violin" (1998)
Intertwines romance with the appreciation of a rare and valuable violin.
Fantasy
"Starry Night" (1999)
Involves a young artist discovering a magical paintbrush that brings paintings to life.
"The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus" (2009)
Combines fantasy and artistry as characters navigate a surreal landscape shaped by imagination.
"The Shape of Water" (2017)
Features visually striking scenes and explores unconventional love in a Cold War-era setting.
Documentary
"Waste Land" (2010):
Follows artist Vik Muniz collaborating with Brazilian garbage pickers to create art from recycled materials.
"Rivers and Tides" (2001)
Documents the work of environmental artist Andy Goldsworthy, capturing his unique approach to creating art in nature.
"Herb & Dorothy" (2008)
Documents the story of Herb and Dorothy Vogel, a couple with a modest income amassing an impressive contemporary art collection.
Historical
"Girl with a Pearl Earring" (2003)
Explores the imagined creation of Vermeer's iconic painting and dynamics between the artist and his subject.
Musical
"La La Land" (2016)
Genre: Musical Romantic Comedy-Drama
Celebrates the pursuit of artistic dreams in Hollywood.
Explore films recognized for their artistic cinematography
Academy Award Winners
"Blade Runner 2049" (2017):
"The Shape of Water" (2017)
"La La Land" (2016)
"The Revenant" (2015)
"Birdman" (2014)
"Gravity" (2013)
"Life of Pi" (2012)
"Hugo" (2011)
"Inception" (2010)
"Avatar" (2009)
BAFTA AWARD WINNERS
"1917" (2019)
"Roma" (2018)
"The Shape of Water" (2017)
"Gravity" (2013)
"Skyfall" (2012)
"The Grand Budapest Hotel" (2014)
"True Grit" (2010)
"The Hurt Locker" (2008)
"The Dark Knight" (2008)
"The Queen" (2006)
"Children of Men" (2006)
"Memoirs of a Geisha" (2005)
"The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" (2001)
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