Tag: art

Witkin & Witkin (2017)

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Joel Peter Witkin is an influential photographer while his twin brother Jerome is a less celebrated, but excellent painter. This documentary talks about their lives, relationship, and a Mexico City exhibition of both artists’ work. Witkin & Witkin is not for sensitive viewers as it contains a lot of nudity, people with deformities, and dead bodies which make up the majority of Joel’s photographs, as well as some of Jerome’s source material. Overall this is a well made and revealing film that should appeal to anyone interested in contemporary visual art with a dark edge.

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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Goya’s Ghosts (2006)

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Most people missed that the director behind One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest made a very good historical drama revolving around “the father of modern art” Francisco Goya. It stars Stellan Skarsgård, Natalie Portman, Javier Bardem, and Randy “Cannibal Father Knows Best” Quaid. As I often say, it isn’t perfect. However Goya’s Ghosts is a solid choice if you’re looking for a movie off the beaten path.

Blu-ray available from Samuel Goldwyn Films.

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The Rape of Europa (2006)

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We all know Hitler was an asshole. Did you know that the cherry on top of his asshole behavior was stealing and destroying great works of art? It’s true. You can learn all about it in this excellent documentary. I honestly give The Rape of Europa my highest recommendation.

Not available on Blu-ray.

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Arteholic (2014)

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I love Udo Kier. I also love contemporary art, but not as much as Udo. This is a really funny and informative documentary. The academic art world has changed quite a bit since this was filmed but you can still get a lot out of it. Be prepared to roll your eyes a few times though.

Not available on domestic Blu-ray.

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Sky Ladder: The Art of Cai Guo-qiang (2016)

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Streaming on Netflix | imdb | trailer

Here’s a solid overview of one of the more high-profile Chinese visual artists. Guo-qiang is known mostly for his epic firework performances. The movie also covers the artist tackling a major project that challenges him on every level. Sky Ladder is an absorbing documentary that I wish had a slightly longer run time. You won’t hear me say that very often.

Not available on Blu-ray.

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Samsara (2011)

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This is a collection of awe-inspiring footage shot in 25 countries, over five years, with no dialog. You’ll see everything from man-made and natural wonders to some of the worst places on earth. You also get a wide variety of beautiful creative expression and grim human stupidity. Watch this one big. No phone. No tablet. No laptop. BIG. Samsara is a visual learning experience.

FYI – If you enjoy this film, you should really check out the pioneer of this kind of documentary, Koyaanisqatsi (1982). Also, the people behind Samsara made a very similar film in 1992 called Baraka that’s nearly as good.

Available on Blu-ray from MPI.

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Burden (2016)

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Chris Burden was one of the most notorious performance artists of all time. His later career focused more on installation and sculpture, but his work always remained fascinating. I saw a large exhibition of his work at The New Museum a few years back and loved it. Burden is a solid introduction to the artists’ work that I think would appeal to anyone that isn’t easily offended. I refuse to close this recommendation with “Give it a shot.” Nope. Won’t do it.

Not available on Blu-ray.

If you are a fan of Anomalous Cinema, please consider supporting this site by donating any amount (even $1.00 is appreciated) via Venmo @vergeoflight / Cash App $vergeoflight / or Paypal at this secure link. A Paypal account is not required. Thank you.

Struggle: The Life and Lost Art of Szukalski (2018)

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Streaming on Netflix | imdb | trailer

I saw an exhibition of Szukalski’s work at The Visionary Art Museum many years ago and became an instant fan. This documentary was a treat as I knew very little about the man. Yes, he worked for the Nazis, but I feel he redeemed himself. Even if you disagree with me, I feel this is an excellent movie worth watching. I give Struggle my highest recommendation.

Not available on Blu-ray.

If you are a fan of Anomalous Cinema please consider donating any amount via Paypal using this secure link. A Paypal account is not required. Thank you.