A project 7 years in the making, Loving Vincent is the world’s first feature length hand-painted film comprising over 65,000 paintings all done in Van Gogh’s unique and recognisable style. Set after the mysterious death of Van Gogh (Robert Gulaczyk), the film follows Armand Roulin (Douglas Booth) in his quest to deliver a letter from the deceased artist to his brother while also trying to understand the circumstances of his death.

The most striking thing about this film is, of course, the visuals. Often, we’ve heard how Van Gogh’s paintings appear to illuminate and come to life on their canvas and this film truly immortalises this. In creating the picture, computer software was swapped out in favour of the paintbrush as screenplay writer Dorota Kobiela knew it was needed to capture the true spirit of Van Gogh’s art. The result is unforgettable. Each frame is alive with constant movement and almost hypnotic effects are created by the brushwork. At a staggering rate of 12 frames per second, the animation is as smooth and free as the paint itself. Just when you think you’ve grown accustomed to the film’s beauty, another stunning landscape scene or an intense close up of a character leaves the viewer in awe.

Beyond the striking aesthetics is an emotional and immersive plot. Our leading man Armand opens the film engaged in a drunken brawl, unemployed and grieving the loss of the enigmatic Vincent. His physical journey to Auvers reflects the personal journey of growth he experiences brought on by the stories and trials of Van Gogh. As this tale is recounted by family, friends and neighbours of the artist it makes for a heavily emotional film that dives into intense themes of mental stability, financial ruin and suicide. Most poignant perhaps is seeing the toll endured by Theo Van Gogh, upon his brother’s death. However, the driving force of stories and flashbacks, at times feels repetitive and predictable.

It doesn’t matter whether you are a die-hard Van Gogh fan or completely unfamiliar with the Dutch artist’s work, the film accommodates both. Exact replicas of certain paintings are presented as well as direct passages and quotes lifted from Van Gogh’s famous letters. Hearing his words and seeing his work creates a personal engagement and attachment to Van Gogh himself, one that sticks with viewers long after leaving the theatre.

Loving Vincent is now available to watch on DVD in Ireland, many venues such as the National Gallery itself hold ongoing screenings of the artsy production. The love for the film has been felt worldwide, with nominations none less so than the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Regardless of its success this awards season, Loving Vincent will forever stand out as an innovative and brilliant film the likes of which have never been seen before.

●●●●○