The best films about artists:
their lives and works

Cinematography has always been closely connected not only with painting, but also with other types of fine arts. Along with this, cinema often turns to the lives of great people, creating biographical films that tell about outstanding personalities of different eras. It’s no surprise that throughout the history of cinema, many films have been made about artists and other famous figures. These films tell not only about the life and work of outstanding artists, but also about how art influences people and society. In this article we will look at the best films about artists and great personalities that have received recognition from critics and audiences.

Big Eyes (2014)

Big Eyes, directed by Tim Burton, tells the story of Margaret Keane, an American artist who was forced to fight for recognition of her work after her paintings were sold under the name of her husband Walter.

Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz star as Margaret Keane and Walter Keane, respectively. Adams won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Comedy or Musical for her work, and Waltz won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Comedy or Musical.

Van Gogh. At Eternity’s Gate (2018)

The film "Van Gogh on the Threshold of Eternity" directed by Julian Schnabel tells about the last years of the life of the great artist Vincent Van Gogh. The film takes place in Arles, where Van Gogh settles in a yellow house and creates his most famous paintings.

The film focuses on Van Gogh’s relationship with his friend and colleague Paul Gauguin. Two artists come to Arles to work together and create new art. However, their friendship quickly deteriorates due to creative differences and personal problems. Eventually, Gauguin leaves Arles, and Van Gogh falls into madness and cuts off his earlobe.

Willem Dafoe starred as Van Gogh, who received a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film for his work.

Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)

This film tells the story of the life of Jan Vermeer, a 17th century Dutch artist. The focus is on the history of the creation of his famous painting “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” Colin Farrell stars as Vermeer and Scarlett Johansson as his model. The film received numerous awards, including an Oscar for Best Cinematography.

Frida (2002)

This film tells the story of the life of Frida Kahlo, a Mexican artist who became famous for her self-portraits. The focus is on her difficult fate, full of love, pain and creativity. Salma Hayek starred as Frida Kahlo, who received an Oscar for Best Actress for her work.

Michelangelo. Infinity (2017)

Documentary film “Michelangelo. Infinity" (2018) directed by Emanuele Imbucci tells about the life and work of one of the greatest artists in history - Michelangelo Buonarroti.

The film is divided into two parts. The first part tells about Michelangelo’s childhood and youth, his first works and trip to Rome. The second part tells about Michelangelo’s mature work, his work in the Sistine Chapel, Florence and Rome.

These are just some of the best films about artists and creativity. If you are interested in painting and other types of fine arts, then be sure to watch these films. They will help you better understand the work of great masters and how art influences our lives.