The documentary disperses the myth that this great artist was a deformed, lonely and pathethic figure sheltered in cabarets where his art flourished amid those who would sympathetically accept him. The interviews quite oppositely draw a picture of a very confident, highly professional artist who enjoyed prominent success with the elite company of those in the entertainment world. Although he thumbed his nose at the art society, he was beloved by the bohemian performers and "ladies of the evening," spending weeks languishing and drawing as they set about their daily chores. It's true that Lautrec was dwarfed by a childhood accident which permanently stunted the growth of his legs, but in every other aspect from his trunk to his head, he was an ordinary man who enjoyed a rather expressive life of wine, women and song. Unfortunately, his excessiveness led to an early death at the age of 36.
The documentary gives commentaries on some of Lautrec's most notable works, especially those of his close friend, Aristaud Bruant, who laughingly ridiculed his middle-classmen and aristocratic patrons, especially in "Le Mirliton." The innovative poster of "Eldorado" boasts a remarkable simplicity of color, scale and symbolism influenced by the free line and flat two-dimensional areas of the invading Japanese art. Some of the most notable Belle Epoque and Montmarte performers were singer Jane Avril, who was featured in Lautrec's first Japanese-influenced poster, "Divan Japonais." Characterization singer Yvette Guilbert was the focal point of "Guilbert," "Caudieux" was a portrayal of his favorite comedian, and French can-can dancer Louise Weber was the subject of "La Goulue." Lautrec was fascinated by the alluring light and fabric dance of performer Loie Fuller and painted an abstraction of her performance.
The documentary contains commentaries on Lautrec's life and works by Maryanne Stevens, Dennis Cate, Peter Blake, Tom Phillips, Bamber Gascoigne, Julien Barnes, George Melly, Nicholas Garland, Gerald Scarfe, Richard Thompson, and Clive Barda.
In a period of experimentation, Toulouse Lautrec transitioned from naturalism to symbolism as he chronicled Montmarte through posters and lithographs, while stabilizing and simplifying his imagery and lettering. His work was the foundation of current contemporary advertisement and works of art. He captured the essence, sensitivity and hilarity of his selective world and with his compassionate eye and consummate skill, he portrayed their human dignity.
Toulouse-Lautrec bonuses include the Trailer which include paintings from Magritte, Chagal and Kahlo. The Picture Gallery exhibits the works of the artist, Lautrec. Within the case, you will also find "Impressum," which is text by Steffi Schultzke, plus English translation by Alex Zuckrow which gives further insight to the life and contributions of his art.
As one who appreciates art, I thoroughly enjoyed Toulouse-Lautrec, the documentary; it was informative and entertaining and gave me a greater insight into the artist and his contribution. I have only one suggestion, and that is that subtitles be included for each language. I, personally, appreciate the ability to watch the subtitles along with the DVD; then, if I miss something, I can catch it in the subtitles before the next scene. Just a little convenience I would enjoy.
