Vincent and Theo

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Leia S Feb 13, 2019 ï¿ 1/2~Vincent & Theoï¿ 1/2(TM) was directed by Robert Altman. The film was written by Julian Mitchell. Ludi Boeken and David Conroy produced it. It first aired in 1990. The film ï¿ 1/2~Vincent & Theoï¿ 1/2(TM) is based on the life of the prolific artist named Vincent Van Gogh played by Tim Roth, and his brother Theo Van Gogh, played by Paul Rhys. The film starts off with an argument between Vincent and his brother Theo about Vincentï¿ 1/2(TM)s lack of employment and money. They are two Dutch men living in Paris during the late 19th century. Theo works at an art gallery as a dealer, while his brother is a poverty stricken artist. Vincentï¿ 1/2(TM)s art is not the popular art that is purchased at the time. A struggle between the brothers persists regarding selling his art throughout the entire film. Vincent is entirely obsessed with painting everything, painting commoners or the fields, both of which were not in fashion in the art scene. Early in the film Vincent makes friends with a very poor woman whom he pays to do nude modeling for his art. They become friends and he invites her to live with him. The only reason Vincent isnï¿ 1/2(TM)t homeless is due to his brothers support. They have a very strong bond as Theo is constantly giving Vincent a hard time, but also always protective of him. Throughout the film there are running themes regarding the brothers sexual promiscuity, and the diseases that come along with it. Theo is very sick with syphilis throughout the whole film, causing psychotic episodes, insanity, ultimately destroying his relationships and killing him. Vincent also struggles from a serious mental illness that seems to be exacerbated by his syphilis, as his actions throughout the film are far more irrational and scary than Theos. The film outlines Theos life as a struggling art dealer whom resents his boss due to his poor compensation and their poor taste in art, as well as resenting his brother for refusing to conform to the styles of the day in his art. Vincent is depicted as an obsessed almost homeless artist whom does not get along with most people. He slowly becomes more and more psychotic as the film progresses. Instances of him cutting off his ear or shooting himself are just a few of the insane acts he commits over his life. Ultimately both Vincent and Theo die in sad ways, both never realizing their dreams. Vincent dies from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and Theo dies from syphilis. The film was well produced with great use of cinematography. Birds eye view shots are utilized as well as long shots to include the scenery where Vincent went to paint. Close up scenes during psychotic episodes or moments of high emotion also add to the dramatic effect of the story line. Through the use of well-placed scenes and body language the production was also able to create a very apparent view of Theoï¿ 1/2(TM)s bosses at the art gallery as being very entitled and arrogant. The negatives of the production are that it seemed to drag on and be highly disturbing as well as depressing. I understand why this is due to Vincent Van Goghï¿ 1/2(TM)s life. My overall recommendation for the film ï¿ 1/2~Vincent & Theoï¿ 1/2(TM) is that it is worth seeing if you enjoy disturbing films that are very slow, and focus primary on the horrors of the characters life. The limitations of this productions may be very significant due to it being based off of historical events. However, there was room for additional creativity that could have been exploited to the benefit of the audience. I give ï¿ 1/2~Vincent & Theoï¿ 1/2(TM) three stars out of five. In conclusion, the film ï¿ 1/2~Vincent & Theoï¿ 1/2(TM) was an interesting movie about the life of Vincent Van Gogh and his brother Theo. I found it depressing, and seemingly endless. I did gain a greater understanding of their lives, which I knew very little about beforehand. See more

Albus G Jan 28, 2019 The movie Vincent & Theo, a 1990 drama, directed by Robert Altman takes the audience through an emotional rollercoaster as he brings to life Julian Mitchell's story about the loving yet dysfunctional relationship between two brothers, Vincent and Theo Van Gogh. The roles of Vincent and Theo are played by Tim Roth and Paul Rhys. Vincent, a self-declared painter is incessantly determined to be a painter. Throughout the move, Vincent is shown as unkempt with black plaque in between his rotting teeth and thick black dirt underneath his finger nails. His face and tattered clothing are dirty and covered with paint. His expectation is that his younger brother (Theo), well-groomed and dressed to the nines, find a suitable market and manage sales of paintings. Altman is able to capture the desperation in their eyes and faces as their vision does not realize. One can almost read the minds of the two brothers, brilliantly captured by Altman. Their bond is palpable as they look at each other as if nothing else in the world matters but for their heartfelt desire for each to be successful. Not even Rhys spouse and child were able to break the authentic bond between the two brothers - talk about determination and loyalty to brotherhood. Altman's ability to capture Roth's and Rhys deliberate facial expressions draws audience in to clearly see their genuine sadness and/or happiness. The compelling story line commands sympathy. While at times a bit much to watch as Roth's character (Vincent) showed signs of painter's fatigue and mental illness to the extent of self-mutilation. Rhys' (Theo's) love and support for his brother does not waiver despite his inability to sell paintings Their struggles are conveyed authentically - both young troubled men in their own ways with mental and health issues. Their frustration and anger are visibly portrayed by their highly emotional and irrational behaviors to the brink of madness. Consequently, the brother's discussions turn volatile at times. Yet, despite the dysfunctionality, Altman is superb at creatively capturing the care, compassion, and love the two brothers feel for each other from beginning to end. In addition, he fabulously captures the beautiful and lively picturesque scenes transporting one into the vivid scenery and Paris streets. A must-see movie, not recommended for adolescents due to violent content. See more

Poe R Aug 24, 2017 Well done film. More depth than A Lust for Life. A deep dive into the relationship of these brothers. Some scenes where perplexing as to their meaning, however. See more

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Vincent and Theo

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