The subject of this documentary is Texas-based inventor Tim Jenison who has a strong belief that the masterpiece painting "The Music Lesson" (1663) by Johannes Vermeer was created by using special optics and lenses. He attempts to recreate the painting with such devices.
Part of this film includes interviews with David Hockney and Philip Steadman, two Englishmen who share Jenison's belief that Vermeer used special scientific techniques for his paintings rather than just observing models and objects. Hockney and Steadman refer to arguments they've had with art experts regarding science vs. The "purity" of art.
Jenison is a likeable subject for a documentary and his scientific knowledge is very impressive but this film might have been more complete if it included interviews with the art purists. To discuss art masterpieces strictly from a scientific and technical viewpoint (while avoiding artistic ones) leaves the feeling of incompleteness. It also leaves a feeling of dullness to those of us viewers with limited knowledge and interest in technology. - dbamateurcritic.
Part of this film includes interviews with David Hockney and Philip Steadman, two Englishmen who share Jenison's belief that Vermeer used special scientific techniques for his paintings rather than just observing models and objects. Hockney and Steadman refer to arguments they've had with art experts regarding science vs. The "purity" of art.
Jenison is a likeable subject for a documentary and his scientific knowledge is very impressive but this film might have been more complete if it included interviews with the art purists. To discuss art masterpieces strictly from a scientific and technical viewpoint (while avoiding artistic ones) leaves the feeling of incompleteness. It also leaves a feeling of dullness to those of us viewers with limited knowledge and interest in technology. - dbamateurcritic.