Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Colin Firth | ... | Vermeer | |
Scarlett Johansson | ... | Griet | |
Tom Wilkinson | ... | Van Ruijven | |
Judy Parfitt | ... | Maria Thins | |
Cillian Murphy | ... | Pieter | |
Essie Davis | ... | Catharina | |
Joanna Scanlan | ... | Tanneke | |
Alakina Mann | ... | Cornelia | |
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Chris McHallem | ... | Griet's Father |
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Gabrielle Reidy | ... | Griet's Mother |
Rollo Weeks | ... | Frans | |
Anna Popplewell | ... | Maertge | |
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Anaïs Nepper | ... | Lisbeth |
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Melanie Meyfroid | ... | Aleydis |
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Nathan Nepper | ... | Johannes |
This film, adapted from a work of fiction by author Tracy Chevalier, tells a story about the events surrounding the creation of the painting "Girl With a Pearl Earring" by 17th century Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. Little is known about the girl in the painting, it is speculated that she was a maid who lived in the house of the painter along with his family and other servants, though there is no historical evidence. This masterful film attempts to recreate the mysterious girl's life. Griet, played by Scarlett Johansson, is a maid in the house of painter Johannes Vermeer, played by British actor Colin Firth. Vermeer's wealthy patron and sole means of support, Van Ruijven, commissions him to paint Griet with the intent that he will have her for himself before it is finished. She must somehow secretly pose for the crucial painting without the knowledge of Vermeer's wife, avoid Van Ruijven's grasp, and protect herself from the cruel gossip of the world of a 17th century servant. Written by thexotherxchris
I was fascinated by that movie. Every scene looked like a painting and they perfectly captured Vermeer's light . I also liked the historical references to how Vermeer liked to paint young people so he could work on big surfaces of colour and avoid the shading wrinkles give. The music was beautiful and gave off a Dutch feeling of the 17th century as it should have. The time customs that were mentioned are also a great asset.Griet looked so much like Vermeer's original painting that I thought in a moment that this was real (but of course it couldn't cause back in 17th century were no cameras around :p).It was a perfect movie for someone interested in art. Other might find it a bit tiring but if you are an art lover you definitely have to watch this.