Watch Manet and the Birth of Impressionism

Manet and the Birth of Impressionism is a 2009 documentary film centered on the life and work of the famous artist Édouard Manet, one of the pioneers of the impressionist movement. The film features Waldemar Januszczak, an art critic and television presenter, as well as Juliet Wilson-Bareau, a well-known art historian and curator, as they explore the fascinating world of Manet's art and his contribution to the development of modern art.

The film takes us on a journey through Manet's life, starting with his early years as a student and his struggle to break free from the traditional art academy. Manet was a visionary artist who was not afraid to challenge conventions and push boundaries. He wanted to capture the reality of everyday life in his paintings, rather than represent the idealized and romanticized versions of reality that dominated the art scene at the time. As a result, his work was often controversial and met with great resistance from the art establishment.

The film explores Manet's most famous works, such as Le Déjeuner sur l'Herbe and Olympia, and delves into the fascinating stories behind each painting. Januszczak and Wilson-Bareau analyze the artistic techniques used by Manet to create his distinctive style and discuss how his work influenced the impressionist movement that followed.

Throughout the film, we get to see some of the world's most beautiful and valuable paintings up close, as well as rare photographs and documents that shed light on Manet's life and art. The film also includes interviews with contemporary artists and art historians who provide insightful commentary on Manet's legacy and his continuing relevance in the modern art world.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way it shows Manet's development as an artist over time. We see his early works, which were heavily influenced by the realism of Gustave Courbet, and how he gradually moved towards impressionism in his later paintings.

Manet and the Birth of Impressionism is a beautifully crafted film that offers a fascinating insight into the life and art of one of the most important artists of the 19th century. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of art or looking to gain a greater appreciation for the beauty and significance of impressionism.

Overall, Manet and the Birth of Impressionism is a masterfully crafted documentary that tells the story of an artist who helped shape the course of modern art. Through the use of stunning visuals, engaging commentary, and insightful analysis, the film provides a captivating glimpse into the life and work of a true visionary.

Manet and the Birth of Impressionism is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.