Girl with a Pearl Earring (B+ or 3.5/4 stars)
Because her parents cannot afford to support her, 16 yr. old Griet (Scarlett Johansson) goes to work for Maria Thin, her daughter, & her son-in-law in 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' (directed by Peter Webber). Before he was world famous, said son-in-law was struggling painter, Johannes Vermeer (Colin Firth). Griet's new employers prove to be difficult to work for. Johannes is a moody man who spends most of the hours of the day as a recluse in his studio attic (desperate to create his next masterpiece). His wife, Catharina (icy Essie Davis) is perpetually pregnant; yet jealous of Griet's innocence & beauty. Their children despise Griet. And Catharina's mother, Maria (a terrifying Judy Parfitt, of Dolores Claiborne), brings an unmatched strictness to her household.
The family relies on Johannes Vermeer's paintings to commission their livelihood. The main dramatic thrust of the film occurs when wealthy patron, Van Ruijven (Tom Wilkinson), takes too much of a liking to Griet. Because Johannes likes Griet so much, this leads him to commission a painting of HER - a mere maid! As one could imagine, Griet's posing for this painting causes enormous tension & stress for all inhabitants of Maria Thin's household; as indeed, the sexual tension between Johannes & his muse is quite palpable. And members of the family try to sabotage Griet (in the eyes of Johannes).
In reality, very little is known about the actual girl in the infamous painting. It appears that she was, indeed, a maid in the house (though, there is no hard evidence). So this film's screenplay on what 'could' have actually happened is actually very mysterious & very intriguing. I admire how this film tackles the complexity that engulfs an artist as they try to create their masterpieces. Though Griet is a device (as his apprentice/assistant), I enjoyed his discussions with her on light & color (which adds to his artistic genius). It was enriching to watch. I also liked a moment when Griet lets her hair down (out of her head wrap). Though nothing sexual occurs, the tension in both her & Vermeer's face (in this moment) is highly erotic.
This is a film where the visual outshines the narrative (even though there are great merits here). Everything from the quaint 17th century town, to the design of the buildings, to the interiors, to the beautifully restrained costumes, to the hair & make-up, to the paintings, the colors, the camera angles, use of lighting ... I could go on & on. If you're not into the story (or the spare dialogue), then focus on the succulent visuals. I must praise Johansson here. Her use of body language, subtle facial tics, & provocative eyes brings fear, curiosity & slow-burn intensity to a story that could offer too many vacancies for some audiences. She's immaculate, here. And I also praise Colin Firth; for he matches Griet's quiet intensity in some very crucial scenes.
Clearly, this film is the antidote/antithesis to most Hollywood movies that are being churned out left & right. I appreciate this, greatly. Now, with exception of the two leads, characterization is slight. And as mentioned, though 'Girl with ...' provides a contemplative & enriching experience, some viewers may become impatient with the proceedings. But the artistic precision 'in & of' the film saves it every time. The period details feel 100% accurate. I love Alexandre Desplat's moody musical score. And it's VERY interesting to consider that this story has some potential truths in it.
The family relies on Johannes Vermeer's paintings to commission their livelihood. The main dramatic thrust of the film occurs when wealthy patron, Van Ruijven (Tom Wilkinson), takes too much of a liking to Griet. Because Johannes likes Griet so much, this leads him to commission a painting of HER - a mere maid! As one could imagine, Griet's posing for this painting causes enormous tension & stress for all inhabitants of Maria Thin's household; as indeed, the sexual tension between Johannes & his muse is quite palpable. And members of the family try to sabotage Griet (in the eyes of Johannes).
In reality, very little is known about the actual girl in the infamous painting. It appears that she was, indeed, a maid in the house (though, there is no hard evidence). So this film's screenplay on what 'could' have actually happened is actually very mysterious & very intriguing. I admire how this film tackles the complexity that engulfs an artist as they try to create their masterpieces. Though Griet is a device (as his apprentice/assistant), I enjoyed his discussions with her on light & color (which adds to his artistic genius). It was enriching to watch. I also liked a moment when Griet lets her hair down (out of her head wrap). Though nothing sexual occurs, the tension in both her & Vermeer's face (in this moment) is highly erotic.
This is a film where the visual outshines the narrative (even though there are great merits here). Everything from the quaint 17th century town, to the design of the buildings, to the interiors, to the beautifully restrained costumes, to the hair & make-up, to the paintings, the colors, the camera angles, use of lighting ... I could go on & on. If you're not into the story (or the spare dialogue), then focus on the succulent visuals. I must praise Johansson here. Her use of body language, subtle facial tics, & provocative eyes brings fear, curiosity & slow-burn intensity to a story that could offer too many vacancies for some audiences. She's immaculate, here. And I also praise Colin Firth; for he matches Griet's quiet intensity in some very crucial scenes.
Clearly, this film is the antidote/antithesis to most Hollywood movies that are being churned out left & right. I appreciate this, greatly. Now, with exception of the two leads, characterization is slight. And as mentioned, though 'Girl with ...' provides a contemplative & enriching experience, some viewers may become impatient with the proceedings. But the artistic precision 'in & of' the film saves it every time. The period details feel 100% accurate. I love Alexandre Desplat's moody musical score. And it's VERY interesting to consider that this story has some potential truths in it.