The Painting
France2011animated76'Jean-François Laguionie Retrospective
In the animation, which takes place inside an infinite painting, the characters are divided into three groups: the Finished, the Unfinished and the Sketches. The hierarchy is simple – those who have managed to be fully painted are in charge, while those with no such luck must expect inferior treatment. A different social background does not prevent the young couple from falling in love with each other, but their families will never allow this union. The only salvation seems to be finding an artist and persuading him to complete the painting. An adventure version of Romeo and Juliet combined with a critique of social inequality.
- directed by
- Jean-François Laguionie
Jean-François Laguionie (born 1939 in Besançon) is a French animation filmmaker who blends surrealism and impressionism. A student of Paul Grimault, he abandoned theatre in favor of animated film as an art form. His style is marked by gouache technique, interplay of light, and maritime motifs—seen in works like The Lady and the Cellist, Rowing Across the Atlantic, and Louise by the Shore. He also explores social and political themes while maintaining a poetic, unique style.
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