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"What makes a Vermeer, a Vermeer?" Vermeer: Master of Light, is a visual quest in search of an answer to this question. It is a journey of discovery, guiding the viewer through an exploration of Vermeer’s paintings and examining the “secrets” of his technique. Each frame of the film emulates the subtlety of Vermeer, with particular emphasis placed on lighting and composition. Utilizing x-ray analysis, infrared reflectography, and the power of computer technology, the program investigates what lies beneath the surface of the paintings to unveil captivating insights into the master’s work. The paintings of Johannes Vermeer are intriguing as much for their subjects as for the poetic ways in which these are portrayed. Vermeer’s use of light and color, proportion and scale mesmerizes the viewer. His everyday scenes are imbued with nuances of reflection and meaning that are at once familiar and mysterious. This film celebrates one of the most extraordinary painters in the history of art.
Narrated by Meryl Streep
| Catalog Number: MC-951 |
Type: Feature |
Genre: Art / Artist |
| Copyright: 2008 |
Length: 57 minutes |
Format:
DVD Region: 0 (All) |
| TV System: NTSC |
ISBN: |
UPC: 880198095190 |
| Label: National Gallery of Art, Washington |
Notes: Emmy Nominee, Best Director Documentary
Emmy Winner, Best Graphic and Artistic Design
Narrated by Meryl Streep
This title is available in Europe for Wholesale - List Prices: £16.99 / 24.95€
 This program is closed captioned
This is a Microcinema Exclusive title.
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Exhibition:
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Films In Compilation
Vermeer directed by
Joseph
Krakora
USA,
Documentary,
2001,
00:57:00
Narrated by actress Meryl Streep, viewers are transported into Vermeer’s paintings in search of their secrets. Utilizing the potential of x-ray analysis, infrared refectography and the power of ...
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2009-10-26 blogcritics.com
By Jennifer Bogart
Though little is known about the life of Johannes Vermeer, the famous 17th century Dutch artist; many now recognize at least a small selection of his paintings after his fictional portrayal in Girl with the Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier and the subsequent film. Even those of us who haven’t read the novel (inspired by the painting of the same name), were sure to note the captivating use of Vermeer’s work on the cover as it graced prominent shelves at the local bookstore.
After lapsing into obscurity after his death, Vermeer’s work was rediscovered in the 19th century, and is now celebrated as amongst the most masterful of the Dutch Golden Age artists. In Vermeer: Master of Light narrator Meryl Streep guides viewers through a journey into Vermeer’s work to explore the facets of his work that make it unique.
Drawing upon the experience and insight of art historians and museum curators, Vermeer takes us to the paintings themselves (surprisingly small in person) as those most familiar with his work speak of restorations, technique, light, and perspective. Through the revealing use of x-ray analysis, infrared reflectography, and extensive use of three-dimensional computer models of Vermeer’s work, casual admirers of Vermeer’s work are drawn deeper into the composition and genius of his paintings.
Streep’s narration is beautiful, while at first notably ‘Meryl’, her soothing tones soon blend with the visual aspects of the film, carefully ushering viewers through a catalog of Vermeer's art as her tones reflect the very tranquility found in so many of his works. Painstakingly directed by Joseph J. Krakora, the use of light, shadow, and careful composition throughout the documentary reflect a deep appreciation and understanding of Vermeer’s work on the part of the director, that when combined with Streep’s narration provide an analogous backdrop for the paintings themselves. Having received an Emmy for Best Graphic and Artistic Design, as well as a nomination for Best Director Documentary, it’s clear that this attention to detail has not gone unappreciated.
Sadly this superb exploration of Vermeer’s extant works is completely lacking in additional DVD features which would make Vermeer all the more enjoyable. Bereft of even a standard navigational menu, all viewers are provided with is a play button. After viewing the disc I double-checked, hoping for perhaps, some full-screen stills of the paintings explored within the film – dreaming of transforming my television into an at-home art gallery if you will. I was disappointed to find that indeed, there are no additional features included.
So, what makes a Vermeer a Vermeer? That’s a question that even the minds of those who’ve been studying his work for years fail to answer succinctly. After examining a wealth of technical points, there is still a feeling, a mood, something difficult to pin down, which continues to draw viewers into each painting – wrapping them within the folds of the world Vermeer has created for us to catch a glimpse of. Vermeer: Master of Light takes anyone longing for a deeper understanding of his work “behind-the-canvas’ as it were, in this fascinating art film.
| 2009-08-25 Digigods
Vermeer: Master of Light, on the other hand, sheds new light on an old master whose popularity has reignited in recent years thanks to the book and film "Girl with a Pearl Earring." But Vermeer's importance as an artist has often been overshadowed by Rembrandt or simply folded in with the general, broader importance of "Flemish painting" as a movement. Here, in excruciating, exacting detail, Vermeer's work is examined in the most scholarly fashion imaginable, including the use of modern science to underscore the genius of this remarkable artist. By the end, in fact, you may even start to believe that Vermeer was greater than Rembrandt.
| 2009-06-23 Curled up with a Small DVD
Vermeer: Master of Light, is a National Gallery of Art film dedicated to the specific quest among art lovers to highlight the individual visual and emotional quality that “makes a Vermeer a Vermeer.” Through the beautiful exploration of many of Vermeer’s most beloved works, viewers venture forth into a world of light and dawning appreciation for the spectacular art Vermeer’s incomparable talent birthed.
During the fifty-seven minutes of the production, leading art experts analytically and appreciatively discuss the paintings of Johannes Vermeer. Viewers are taken on an educational tour through the individual works with emphasis on color usage, focal points, use of light and shadow, and the importance of visual impression over reality. The wealth of knowledge discoursed upon by these experts makes for a very engrossing film.
More than just the nitty-gritty of the art particulars, the experts bring a true appreciation and love for what Vermeer accomplished with the overall emotional impressions his art produces on even the least interested passers-by. Vermeer’s art is truly about light and the glorious enchanting wonder that he found in some of the most simple and workaday menial tasks. His adoration for women, their movements and expressions, their daily activities and tasks is evident in his chosen muses and art scenes. But the really breathtaking quality of his art is in its ability to make any viewer not only see but truly feel that each captured moment is undeniably celestial even in its painted state.
Narrated by Meryl Streep and directed by Joseph J. Krakora, Vermeer: Master of Light was nominated for a Best Director (Documentary) Emmy and won the statuette for Best Graphic and Artistic Design. The presentation of the wealth of historical and biographical information is accessible to viewers of all ages and backgrounds.
The only minor flaw is Meryl Streep's minimal role as narrator; her lines are so limited as to be almost missed. It is a pity since her role so broadly advertised as a selling point for those eyeing the DVD cover.
Overall, this documentary is a fabulous addition to any personal movie library or for use in schools on a variety of subjects.
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