United Kingdom released, PAL/Region 0 DVD: LANGUAGES: English ( Dolby Digital 2.0 ), English ( Subtitles ), WIDESCREEN (1.78:1), SPECIAL FEATURES: Interactive Menu, Scene Access, SYNOPSIS: The legacy of Vincent Van Gogh was not just a great number of masterpieces but also the most fascinating artist's correspondence that we know. In fact if we never retained a single painting of his, the letters alone would make him a singular figure in the art world. As the letters testify, he may have struggled to become an accomplished artist, but he was a born wordsmith. Vincent Van Gogh is played by Benedict Cumberbatch, (Star of the Imitation Game and TV lead roles in Sherlock and Parade s End) and Jamie Parker takes on the role of Vincent's brother, Theo. Vincent Van Gogh: Painted with Words will offer a unique portrait of the artist told from his own words. This first-hand account will show that Van Gogh was far from the mad freak as he is so often depicted, but a sophisticated, civilised man right up until his death. Vincent Van Gogh: Painted with Words is beautifully crafted piece. Every word spoken by the actors in this film is sourced from the letters that Van Gogh sent to his younger brother Theo, and of those around him. What emerges is a complex portrait of a sophisticated, civilised and yet tormented man. This is Van Gogh's story in his own words. Narrated by Alan Yentob. ...Van Gogh: Painted with Words
A**R
Interesting and unusual format. Takes a bit of getting used to but definitely worth a watch.
This "docudrama" has a very interesting and unusual format. (Is that the word I want?) It takes a bit of getting used to. It's narrated as a documentary but has dramatised scenes where all the lines are words that were written by Van Gogh in the form of letters. Benedict (and the other actors) delivers them as a form of monologue to the screen, sort of as if you are the recipient of the letters/dialogue/monologue. I could liken it, in some ways, to a form of video diary. Definitely worth a watch. I didn't see it on tv so I can't comment on the "missing scenes" that others have mentioned. Dvd arrived 2 days after ordering (1 day before expected delivery date given.) Dvd was in perfect condition.
A**E
Artist as Author
Beautifully shot and put together, telling Van Gogh's story in his own words, from his letters to his brother, this is a sympathetic if not loving, study of the artist and his work. It is not deep or academic, but it is very real, very human, Tight story telling and psychologically insightful, you will indeed remember what you learn from this documentary. Benedict Cumberbatch is excellent is this, as to do such short scenes and alone is really hard and technically demanding. Lovely and haunting
S**L
One of the best films I have in my collection
One of the best films I have in my collection. Insightful and beautifully portrayed, I love the fact that the dialogue is taken from Vincent's actual letters to his brother. It has helped me appreciate this artist more than I already did. Well worth watching.
B**S
It is what it says on the tin.Brilliant!
An absolutely beautiful film, made very moving by the use of the letters between Vincent and his brother. This was a television production some time back and the first time I was aware of Benedict Cumberbatch. He gives a sensitive and convincing performance. You don't even have to be a fan of the art to appreciate this film.
M**T
Rip off
I am so disappointed that large amounts of the original programme have been omitted from this DVD.It was a wonderful experience to watch the programme when shown in BBC so the issue of this highly shortened DVD leaves a bad taste in the mouth.DO NOT BUY!!!
T**S
Awful
Absolute rubbish. Don't buy this light weight dribble. I have around 14 documentaries on van Gogh and this is by far the worst.
N**S
dont bother
I feel a bit cheated as its not a proper full length film. But then I am not a Benedict Cumberbatch fan ...only a Vincent van Gogh fan!
V**D
You are doing GREAT!
Excellent item and excellent service. Thanks a lot!!!
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