Drama Films That Paint a Picture of Galleries

Description: This classic British comedy-drama follows the eccentric artist Gulley Jimson as he schemes to paint a mural in a church, with scenes set in galleries and art circles.

Fact: Alec Guinness, who played Jimson, also wrote the screenplay based on Joyce Cary's novel.

Description: This biographical drama about Frida Kahlo showcases her tumultuous life, her art, and her relationship with Diego Rivera, with scenes set in galleries and art exhibitions.

Fact: Salma Hayek, who played Frida, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film was shot in Mexico, where Frida's art was prominently displayed.

Description: A sophisticated art heist thriller where Thomas Crown, a wealthy businessman, steals a priceless painting from a gallery, sparking a cat-and-mouse game with an insurance investigator.

Fact: The film features a real-life art heist, with the painting "San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk" by Monet being stolen in the plot. The original 1968 film was remade with Pierce Brosnan and Rene Russo.

Description: The film delves into the life of Pippa Lee, whose husband is an art gallery owner, exploring themes of identity and art through the lens of gallery life.

Fact: The film features a diverse cast, including Robin Wright, Keanu Reeves, and Julianne Moore, and was shot in various locations in New York.

Description: A coming-of-age story about a high school senior who finds inspiration and love through his involvement with the school's art gallery and its exhibitions.

Fact: The film was Freddie Highmore's first lead role in a feature film since his work in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory."

Description: This film follows Virgil Oldman, a renowned but eccentric auctioneer, who becomes obsessed with a mysterious client, leading him into a world of art forgery and deception within the gallery setting.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Italy, including the stunning Villa Alceo in Tuscany. Geoffrey Rush, who plays Virgil, learned to paint for his role.

Description: A documentary that follows the legal battle over the Barnes Foundation's art collection, showcasing the power struggles within the art world and the role of galleries in these conflicts.

Fact: The film features interviews with key figures involved in the legal battle, providing an insider's view of the art world's politics.

Description: A group of art historians and curators race against time to save priceless works of art from the Nazis, with scenes set in galleries and museums across Europe.

Fact: The film is based on a true story, and some of the art pieces shown were real works that were saved during World War II.

Description: Set in 17th-century Delft, this film explores the relationship between painter Johannes Vermeer and his muse, Griet, as they work on what would become one of the most famous paintings in the world, displayed in galleries worldwide.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations in the Netherlands, and Scarlett Johansson learned to speak Dutch for her role. The painting itself is housed in the Mauritshuis museum in The Hague.

Description: A young artist becomes embroiled in the world of art forgery, leading to a thrilling exploration of authenticity and deception within the gallery scene.

Fact: The film was shot in various art galleries in New York City, providing an authentic backdrop for the story.