10 must-see art films if you’re looking for inspiration and knowledge
Cinema has profited with art films from exposing the history behind great artists, disruptive struggles of the time and even bringing to life unique stories that aim to raise awareness about the value of paintings, sculptures, drawings and more.
If you are passionate about the world of art and painting, or are dedicated to the creation of works of any kind, there are movies that as a lover you must watch at least once in your life if you want to know the history of the most famous artists and inspire you to create your own path to success.
Today we bring you a selection of the 10 best art films so you can enjoy this genre, get cultured and spend a pleasant afternoon. Discover them!
Top 10 art films
1. At Eternity’s Gate (2018)
This film tells the story of the very famous Van Vogh, who in 1886 moved to France and during these glory years, paints his most renowned and iconic works. A film that shows the sobriety and depth of everything involved in creating art, and how each artist has his unique story that identifies him.
In addition, the actor who plays Van Gogh ( William Dafoe), manages to convey a touching humanity and passion, which led to a nomination in the 2018 Oscars for best actor. Certainly a must of art and painting movies.
2. The Best Offer (2013)
This art film talks about Virgil Oldman, a lonely man who is an art expert and his relationship with a woman who commissions him to appraise and sell works of art inherited from his parents. The peculiar thing is that this young woman suffers a strange psychological illness that keeps her isolated from the world, thus transforming Virgil’s life.
Mysterious, complex and sentimental, The Best Offer is an ambitious film with great scenographic shots. We’ll leave you the trailer in case you want to see it.
3. Frida. Viva la Vida (2019)
Salma Hayek in her most iconic role gives life to the great Frida Kahlo, symbol of feminism and art revolution. In this film you can see a journey through his work and his personal struggles that give life to his self-portraits.
An intense and passionate film, which shows a story full of facts and testimonies not seen before.
4. Mona Lisa Smile (2003)
In 1953, Katherine Watson moved to Wellesley University in New England to teach art history. In the aftermath of the war, Watson expects his students to excel, but on arrival he realizes that tradition and conformism reign there.
Starring Julia Roberts, a film that shows the great battle to make art appreciated how it deserves, and not be afraid to fight to get out of the standards and destinies that society has imposed.
5. Midnight in Paris (2011)
Written and directed by Woody Allen. Owen Wilson, an American writer travels to Paris with his fiancée and her parents. During his stay, he falls under a spell that transports him to the 1920s, where he has the opportunity to coexist with great artists of the time before they became famous.
An art film that is a love letter to the present, past and future, with spectacular artistic shots and an original and extraordinary story. Definitely one of the must-sees of the genre.
6. The Monuments Men (2014)
Directed by George Cloneey. Set at the end of WWII, it tells the story of a select group of historians and art experts who have the important and dangerous mission of saving works of art stolen by the Nazis before they are destroyed by Adolf Hitler.
An art film with a lot of adrenaline, action and courage to save the culture of humanity. It will make you have a good time so we highly recommend it if you love history and art.
7. Girl With a Pearl Earring (2003)
Set in 1665, it depicts the creation of Johannes Vermeer’s portrait masterpiece. The girl with a pearl earring (Griet), enters to serve in Vermeer’s house, and Vermeer introduces her to the world of his painting by discovering her gifts to perceive light and color. From here arise several family and personal obstacles that lead Vermeer to paint this great work of art.
An art film made with great knowledge and atmosphere. Photography is masterful and the aesthetic details are perfect. A clever adaptation that justifies why this film has been a best seller.
8. The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
A movie you’ve probably heard before. It tells the story of a bellboy and the head of service of a large hotel who live the theft of a Renaissance painting of high value. A history of struggle for fortune, 20th century uprisings in Europe and works of contemporary art in the form of satire. Quite entertaining and with iconic shots.
9. Angels and Demons (2009)
Starring Tom Hanks, professor of religious symbology Robert Langdon, he searches for the deadliest weapon of mankind that has been introduced to the Vatican in a race against time to avoid disaster.
History takes you for a walk through paintings and sculptures of the Baroque and Renaissance. An entertaining and exciting art film, perfect for a pleasant evening.
10. Francofonia (2015)
During World War II, in an occupied France, two men from opposite sides come together to protect the most valuable painting collection in the world: The Louvre of the Nazis.
A film that gives a deep reflection for art and its meaning. Sophisticated, complex and absorbing. Definitely indispensable if you like art.
You have reached the end of the list! What did you think? Have you seen any? We want to know your opinion.
