Watch Rembrandt

Rembrandt is a biographical film from 1936 that chronicles the tumultuous life of the Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn. The film stars Charles Laughton in the titular role, with supporting performances from Gertrude Lawrence and Elsa Lanchester. The film explores the various facets of Rembrandt's life as an artist, including his struggles with poverty, his relationships with women, and his eventual rise to fame. Laughton's portrayal of the artist is nuanced and authentic, and he captures both the passion and the inner turmoil that defined Rembrandt's work.

The film begins in the early years of Rembrandt's life, when he was a struggling artist living in poverty. Despite his talent and dedication, he is unable to gain recognition for his work, and he is forced to sell his paintings for next to nothing in order to make ends meet. However, he eventually catches the eye of wealthy patrons who see value in his unique style, and his career begins to take off.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of Rembrandt's relationships with women. He is shown to be deeply passionate and affectionate toward his wife Saskia (played by Gertrude Lawrence), who supports him throughout his career. However, his infidelities and affairs eventually lead to her untimely death, which sets off a downward spiral in his personal and professional life.

The film also delves into Rembrandt's complicated relationship with his son Titus (played by Roger Livesey), who struggles to gain his father's approval and live up to his expectations. Their relationship is further complicated by Rembrandt's growing debts and financial troubles, which put a strain on their family life.

Throughout the film, the viewer is treated to stunning visuals of Rembrandt's work, which are woven seamlessly into the plot. We see the evolution of his style and the different influences that shaped his art, from his early years as a student to his eventual mastery of chiaroscuro and use of dramatic lighting.

Overall, Rembrandt is a beautifully crafted biopic that provides a nuanced and engaging look at one of the most iconic painters of all time. The performances are compelling and the visuals are stunning, making it a must-see for anyone interested in art history or the life and work of Rembrandt van Rijn.