Final Portrait

Parental Rating: R

Contains: Language    Nudity    Adult Content    

Jill's Review

Opens April 6, 2018

Runs 90 minutes

James Lord (Armie Hammer) is an American writer and art-lover. On a short trip to Paris in 1964, he stops by to visit his friend, the famous artist Alberto Giacometti (Geoffrey Rush). While there, Alberto asks James to sit for a portrait. James agrees but notes that he has to catch a flight in a couple of days. Alberto assures him that it will only take a few hours or maybe the rest of the afternoon. Eighteen days later, the two have bonded over the artistic process which turns out to be not only creative, but exasperating and even invigorating. The film makes the "tortured artist" expression come to life.

This film was directed by Stanley Tucci. The acting is wonderful and the sly humor that pops up every once in a while is much needed. But, this is a very slow film. It literally is like watching someone paint all day, every day. Not very exciting. There are some lively scenes involving Alberto's wife Annette (Sylvie Testud) and his mistress Caroline (Clémence Poésy). Caroline's pimps even stop by for their money. Those artists! But, otherwise this film is about two unlikely friends, bonding over Alberto's crazy process - his insecurity and the fact that he thinks a portrait is never really completed. I'm glad James finally had to go back to the states or the movie might have never ended. Ha! Anyway, if you like independent "art" films and watching master acting, then you might try to find this little film. Otherwise, just skip it.

Movie Search

Find a movie by name, genre, or ranking.