Loving Vincent

(spoiler free)

‘Loving Vincent’ is a new animation about the life and work of painter Vincent van Gogh. It’s truly unique in it’s animation as it is the first completely painted feature film. Starring Douglas Booth, Saoirse Ronan & Chris O’Dowd like you’ve never seen them before and worked on by over one hundred painters could this exclusive animation really be successful over a feature length running time? 

The concept for ‘Loving Vincent’ is absolutely wonderful and completely awe-inspiring. Each frame of this film is hand painted on canvas using oil paints, the exact same method that van Gogh used throughout his career. It’s beautifully executed with every single brushstroke adding to the gorgeous aesthetic of the film. You’ll want to take in every inch of the screen as it comes to life through the flowing paints and the mixing of colours. I honestly don’t think my eyes have ever been as stimulated in the cinema as they were here. Furthermore, I loved how the cast here are painted, giving life to many of Van Gogh’s most famous pieces. It’s a really inspired idea and it’s executed with the utmost care resulting in a really stunning production. Throughout the film there were times in which it looked like the characters were just being filmed, the artwork here is that good – the likeness to the performers was something to behold.

The narrative for the film explores the life and death of the renowned painter and the many adversities he faced which may or may not have lead to his death. The main focus of the plot is trying to understand the mind of this fantastic artist. It’s not that eventful as such but is devoted to exploring the man behind the canvas and telling his story. I thought this narrative was told incredibly well, always framed with such well crafted elements such as the performances, animation and score.  The score and soundtrack deserve special recognition.  Clint Mansell has delivered a score almost as exquisite as the animation, it consistently enhances this animation and always adds drama or emotion when required. In addition to this there is a touching version of ‘Starry Starry Night’ played over the end credits. It’s performed by Lianne La Havas and is a fitting conclusion to this superb film, brilliantly celebrating this incredibly talented painter.

‘Loving Vincent’ is an absolute triumph in animation, all of those involved and especially those one hundred plus painters should be immensely proud of their work. It’s a very special tribute to the sadly troubled man and artist that was Vincent van Gogh. Looking past it’s immense beauty there’s even more to be gained from this film – it reminds us of the importance of  appreciating and encouraging the creativity of those around us, something that we can never be reminded of enough.

Written by Hamish Calvert

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Rating – 9/10

Question: What is your all time favourite animation?
(Leave your answers in the comments section below!)

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