As a fan of Francis Bacon's work and of this film, I was impressed by the way the filmmakers used unusual, low tech camera techniques to allude to the imagery from Francis Bacon's paints. My question is, as there were no actual Bacon paintings in the film, where they unable to obtain the rights to these paintings, or just felt their inclusion would be detrimental to the narrative of the film? Anyone know?
shareI would say that the director probably felt putting the paintings in the movie would send a different message than the actual narrative, like you said.
"Mmmm...I can almost taste that bulgogi now."
From what I understand, Bacon's estate did not approve of this film and tried to distance themselves from it as far as possible. So, since he was not allowed to show any actual paintings, he attempted to mimic the style and attitude of the art through the camera work.
shareThen the techniques used to overcome the estate's disinterest were very creative and impressive. It just goes to show what good can come from filmmakers working within their limitations instead of showering the situation with money.
shareAs far as Bacon's paintings are concerned, anyone can go to this site and see an amazing film
of about an hour long from "The South Bank Show" from l985. Melvin Bragg interviews Bacon
ad is taken to the studio where the artist discusses at length his methods and ideas. A gripping
and revealing portrait of Bacon that also shows many of his paintings and his own reaction to
them. Strongly suggest that anyone interested in art of any kind see this film. Bacon is both
charming and creepy at the same time. I had the good fortune to meet with and talk to Bacon
years ago in New York. He was an absolute gentleman and a great conversationalist....
the site is: www.ubu.com/film/bacon
I have the film you speak of on dvd, and to me Bacon comes of as indeed an absolute gentleman (and a humble one at that) with a great sense of humor, who lived and breathed ART.
And his paintings are transcendent in the true sense of the word. They convey the
pure sensation of Being, of the birth or manifestation of the spirit into fysical being. Far beyond the logical intellect, that anyway has no idea whatsoever about what anything Really IS.
The purely "horrific" or "bloody" paintings he made are actually a minority. They are just a part of life that he (clearly) doesn't avoid...He just saw matter for what it is: energy. In whatever form.
And his paintings give you a shock of energy...and recognition, if you're awake and free enough to allow yourself to feel...
and the film is great as well...
i fink its gud
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