Classics: A Review of Lust for Life By Lauren Ennis

One of popular culture’s most enduring images is that of the tormented artist. As a result, it comes as little surprise that one of Hollywood’s best biographies chronicles the life of one of the most iconic tortured artists; nineteenth century painter Vincent van Gogh. Famous for his art and infamous for his struggles with mental illness, van Gogh’s tragic life is brilliantly brought to the screen in the 1956 Oscar winning film Lust for Life. A true feast for the eyes, Lust for Life is at once a testament to the artistic spirit and an apt portrait of one of the men who personified it.

Now where have I seen that face before?

The film begins not with van Gogh’s art, but instead with his early efforts to resist becoming an artist. After suffering a humiliating failure when he attempts to follow in his clergyman father’s footsteps as a minster he finally becomes determined to serve humanity through his art. The film then chronicles his efforts to establish himself as a painter and his introduction to the dazzling world of the belle époque art scene. As his skill on the canvass increases, however, his personal life deteriorates into a downward spiral of mental illness. Throughout the tumultuous phases of his life, however, one constant remains; his fundamental belief in the beauty of the world around him and his inherent need to capture that beauty on canvass.

Although the film follows the standard biography format it stands apart from other biopics in its complex approach to its subject. While many biopics will glorify a subject and minimize their flaws Lust for Life maintains a firm focus upon van Gogh the man rather than van Gogh the artistic icon. As a result, the script’s van Gogh is a man audiences can immediately relate to and sympathize with as he struggles against everyday obstacles ranging from unrequited love, to mounting debt, to his inability to launch a successful career. The portrayal of the artist’s often fraught personal relationships particularly resonate in their refusal to present him as either a victim or a villain. Similarly, his struggles with mental illness are rendered with a surprisingly modern sensitivity and nuance. Perhaps the script’s greatest strength is its emphasis upon van Gogh’s work and the dazzling visuals which highlight the sources of inspiration surrounding him. In this way, the film brings the world of the artist to vivid life while reminding viewers why his work has continued to endure into the twenty-first century.

No one paints the town red quite like an artist

The uniformly excellent work of the film’s cast brings the world of van Gogh to vibrant life. Kirk Douglas is a revelation in his layered portrayal of the complex, contradictory, and all too human artist. Anthony Quinn is a force of nature as van Gogh’s brash colleague and rival Paul Gaugin. Pamela Brown perfectly captures the world weariness that has hardened van Gogh’s prostitute love interest, Christine. James Donald and Toni Gerry keep the often larger than life van Gogh grounded as his understanding brother and sister-in-law.

Through its subtle portrayal of the complex personal and professional tapestry of van Gogh’s tumultuous existence Lust for Life breathes vital life into its historical subject. As an apt portrait of both van Gogh the artist and van Gogh the man the film is a true work of art. Through its compelling script and engaging performances the film brings the life and times of van Gogh to the screen with all the vibrancy and emotion of one of his paintings. For a true cinematic masterpiece look no further than Lust for Life.

Studios are for slackers