DVD Review: “Caravaggio”

Posted on Feb 18, 2008 in Features

Blood, love and death. This movie has it all. “Caravaggio”, directed by Angelo Longoni, is not just a standard Italian movie about the life of 17th century Italian painter Michelangelo Merisi, more commonly known as “Caravaggio.” It’s its very own work of art. That’s largely due to the cinematography of Vittorio Storaro, a three-time Academy Award winner whose movies include “The Last Emperor,” “ Reds” and “Apocalypse Now.” “Caravaggio” was submitted for Academy Award consideration but did not get a nomination. While the movie has not been released in American theaters, it debuted in New York City’s Lincoln Center in 2007.

The movie begins with the poverty stricken Merisi, played by noted Italian actor Alessio Boni, who goes to Rome with hopes of becoming a renowned artist. The film quickly shows who plays a key role in his life: prostitutes, whom he depicts as saints in his works; enemies, with whom he has many duals; and lovers. Jordi Mollà plays Cardinal Del Monte, who, along with his associates, befriend Caravaggio and invite him to live in their palace. They keep him from harm after many fights with locals such as Ranuccio Tomassoni, who is played by Maurizio Donadoni. His “one true love,” Lena, is played by Sarah Felberbaum.

The cinematography is excellent with every model shown in the dramatic light Caravaggio uses from above to paint. Storaro’s cinematography mirrors the dramatic use of light and shadow that Caravaggio used in his art. However, Caravaggio’s talent is different from others, according to the movie. He relies on light and movement to capture emotion while his competitors focus on images they have in their minds. His paintings often relate to biblical stories and are painted in an earthly manner. For example, one of his works portrays David holding Goliath’s head, but Caravaggio uses his own face instead of Goliath’s.

This film really shows the physical labor that Caravaggio puts into his paintings. It shows the sleepless nights and starvation he endured to finish his masterpieces. The movie includes realistic paintings filled with emotion that give you an understanding of the artist’s thoughts. The film also accurately reflects 17th century Rome. Carriages, knights, prostitutes, and a game of hand-ball are all prominent images in the film.

Nevertheless, the film is tiring to watch if you don’t speak Italian. The scenes also get very dramatic, with images of beheadings, burnings, and dead bodies.

Additionally, the movie is too long and could use some tweaking. Even though it is a biography of the painter’s life, some scenes are drawn out. Overall, the film is an eye-catcher because of the excellent work of Storaro. It has stunning paintings, realistic scenery, and a cast of Italian actors that really develop their roles. It gives you a better understanding of the life of Renaissance painter Michelangelo Merisi. Many say it surpasses Derek Jarman’s 1986 version. But while it’s pretty to look at, “Caravaggio” can be torture to sit through. Art historians may be fascinated, but others will get restless during the two hours.