By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Year: 2018
At Eternity’s Gate (Switzerland/UK/France/USA; 110min.)
directed by:Julian Schnabel
cast: WillemDafoe; Rupert Friend; Oscar Isaac; Mads Mikkelsen; Mathieu Amalric;Emmanuelle Seignier
Chrissays: “In theory, Willem Dafoe seems a misguided choice to play VanGogh, given the age difference, lack of resemblance, etc. Happily, hemakes a stunning transformation without resorting to extravagantphysical enhancements like Gary Oldman as Churchill–he embodies theman, his body, mind and soul; it’s as sharp a left turn as Dafoe couldtake from last year’s THE FLORIDA PROJECT. At times, Julian Schnabel’sfilm is a tad more pretentious than provocative, but his imagery isinspired, visually recalling the artist’s renowned landscapes andportraits without coming off as mere copies–an impressionist take on apost-impressionist. 3.5 cats”