This biography of the painter, Rembrandt, is nice to look at because the costumes appear appropriate and the film appears to have been filmed in or around 17th century Holland. However, according to IMDb, the film was made in England--not Holland. If this is true, Alexander Korda oversaw a wonderful recreation of the place--complete with houses that look like those you'd see in Amsterdam.
Unfortunately, while the film looked very good, the script seemed very sketchy and episodic. Instead of telling a coherent story, it only showed portions of his life. Instead of focusing on his early years, the film finds him at mid-life--already a success. It also finds him in financial difficulties. However, all his financial successes are pretty much ignored--focusing on his long downfall--which wasn't exactly like his life really was. Sure, he had lots of financial problems due to reckless spending, but at the same time he was very prolific as well as popular--something you'd never suspect if you watch this film! It's entertaining in many places, but confusing and shallow as well.
Overall, interesting to watch but not a film I'd recommend to anyone who really wants to learn about the great artist.
Unfortunately, while the film looked very good, the script seemed very sketchy and episodic. Instead of telling a coherent story, it only showed portions of his life. Instead of focusing on his early years, the film finds him at mid-life--already a success. It also finds him in financial difficulties. However, all his financial successes are pretty much ignored--focusing on his long downfall--which wasn't exactly like his life really was. Sure, he had lots of financial problems due to reckless spending, but at the same time he was very prolific as well as popular--something you'd never suspect if you watch this film! It's entertaining in many places, but confusing and shallow as well.
Overall, interesting to watch but not a film I'd recommend to anyone who really wants to learn about the great artist.