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National Gallery, by Frederick Wiseman
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We could say without fear of error that Frederick Wiseman, renowned documentary filmmaker, has specialized in institutions (La Danse or Berkeley). With almost 50 years of experience in this genre, this time he captivates us with his unique and intimate look into the heart of the National Gallery. It is one of the largest museums in the world, with 2400 paintings that encompass from the thirteenth to the nineteenth century. With great subtlety and discretion, the camera analyzes all the aspects that take place in the daily life of this institution
It is quite a joy to hear the explanations the museum guides give us about the exhibited works, relating them to the classical myths and history. It is very instructive to know the detailed work of the restorers and how they scrape tiny slivers off to observe them under the microscope. All retouchings are done over a layer of varnish so that any change can be reversible. The lectures of the art specialists, aimed at an audience interested in the subject are magnificent. It is very interesting to be present at the redecoration of a room where new paintings will be exhibited later or at the educational programs for younger children and teenagers. Paintings for the blind through reproductions in relief that help them to trace the images using their fingers are very curious, too. Finally, it is a delight to go with the camera through the galleries of the great masters: Vermeer, Velázquez, Leonardo, Titian, Stubbs, Caravaggio, Turner and many others. These beautiful paintings illuminate our past and help us to understand the present.
The meetings of the manager team are an example of democracy, where we can see the different views of its members and how they take decisions about the budget distribution. The gallery director, Nicholas Penny is passionate about his job. He has a great sensitivity to preserving the collection and make it reach a wide audience, but not at any price. Through beautiful images, the film captivates and shows us how this man attempts to maintain the prestige of the museum that we breathe in any of its corners.
Texts: Núria Farré. facebook@cinemaperaestudiants.cat
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