10 Must-Watch Biopics About Painters

Description: A biographical drama about Vincent van Gogh, this film focuses on his relationship with Paul Gauguin and his descent into madness. It's a poignant portrayal of the artist's life and his struggle for recognition.

Fact: Kirk Douglas, who portrayed van Gogh, learned to paint left-handed for authenticity. The film was nominated for four Academy Awards.

Description: Focused on Michelangelo's painting of the Sistine Chapel, this film dramatizes the artist's conflicts with Pope Julius II and his own artistic vision.

Fact: Charlton Heston, who played Michelangelo, also co-wrote the screenplay. The film was nominated for five Academy Awards.

Description: This film tells the story of Jean-Michel Basquiat, a graffiti artist who rose to fame in the 1980s New York art scene. It highlights his friendship with Andy Warhol and his battle with addiction.

Fact: The film was directed by Julian Schnabel, who was a friend of Basquiat. Jeffrey Wright's performance as Basquiat was critically acclaimed.

Description: This film captures the tumultuous life of Frida Kahlo, a Mexican painter known for her surrealistic self-portraits. It explores her relationship with Diego Rivera, her health struggles, and her vibrant art.

Fact: Salma Hayek, who played Frida, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film was also nominated for six Oscars, winning two.

Description: This biopic delves into the life of Jackson Pollock, focusing on his abstract expressionism and his tumultuous personal life, including his relationship with Lee Krasner.

Fact: Ed Harris, who played Pollock, also directed the film. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Description: A portrait of the Italian artist Amedeo Modigliani, this film captures his rivalry with Pablo Picasso and his tragic love story with Jeanne Hébuterne.

Fact: The film was shot in Paris, where Modigliani lived and worked. Andy Garcia, who played Modigliani, also produced the film.

Description: A detailed look at the last 25 years of the life of J.M.W. Turner, the great British painter. The film captures his eccentricities, his art, and his complex relationships.

Fact: Timothy Spall won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his portrayal of Turner. The film was also nominated for four Academy Awards.

Description: This French film explores the life of Séraphine Louis, a self-taught painter who was discovered by a German art collector. It's a story of talent, poverty, and the quest for recognition.

Fact: The film won seven César Awards, including Best Film and Best Actress for Yolande Moreau.

Description: This film offers a glimpse into the life of Rembrandt van Rijn, showcasing his financial struggles, his love for his wife, and his dedication to his art.

Fact: Charles Laughton, who played Rembrandt, was known for his intense preparation for roles, including studying Rembrandt's paintings closely.

Description: Based on W. Somerset Maugham's novel, this film loosely portrays the life of Paul Gauguin, focusing on his abandonment of his family to pursue art in Tahiti.

Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the theme of an artist's obsession with his work at the expense of personal relationships.