If you were captivated by the artistic brilliance and dramatic storytelling of 'Klimt' (2006), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows that explore the lives of artists, historical figures, and the creative process. This article is perfect for fans of biographical dramas, visually stunning cinema, and thought-provoking narratives.

Moulin Rouge (1952)
Description: The film dramatizes the life of a famous painter, focusing on his bohemian lifestyle and the vibrant Parisian art scene. The movie's lush visuals and dramatic storytelling echo the artist's own flamboyant and emotive style.
Fact: José Ferrer played both Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and his father in the film. The movie won two Academy Awards, for Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design.


Lust for Life (1956)
Description: This classic biopic captures the intense emotional and creative life of a tormented artist, with a focus on his passionate relationships and mental health struggles. The film's vibrant color palette reflects the artist's own use of bold, expressive hues.
Fact: Kirk Douglas received an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of Vincent van Gogh. The film was shot on location in many of the same places where the artist lived and worked.


The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965)
Description: This epic historical drama explores the creative struggles and personal conflicts of a legendary artist, particularly during the painting of a famous ceiling. The film's grand scale and attention to detail mirror the artist's monumental works.
Fact: Charlton Heston and Rex Harrison starred as Michelangelo and Pope Julius II, respectively. The film was shot on location in Rome and Florence, including the actual Sistine Chapel.


Vincent & Theo (1990)
Description: The film focuses on the complex relationship between a famous artist and his brother, highlighting the emotional and financial struggles that shaped their lives. The cinematography mimics the artist's use of light and shadow.
Fact: Robert Altman directed this unconventional biopic, which was originally made as a TV miniseries before being edited into a feature film. The movie was praised for its authentic portrayal of the artist's life and work.


Basquiat (1996)
Description: The film portrays the meteoric rise and tragic fall of a young artist, capturing the raw energy and chaos of the New York art scene. It emphasizes the artist's unique visual language and the personal demons that fueled his creativity.
Fact: Jeffrey Wright made his film debut in this role, earning critical acclaim. The movie features cameos from several real-life figures from the art world, including Dennis Hopper as a fictionalized version of art dealer Bruno Bischofberger.


Surviving Picasso (1996)
Description: The film examines the tumultuous relationships and egocentric behavior of a legendary artist, offering a glimpse into the personal life behind the public persona. The narrative style is as bold and uncompromising as the artist's own work.
Fact: Anthony Hopkins portrayed Pablo Picasso, with Julianne Moore as his lover Françoise Gilot. The film was controversial for its portrayal of Picasso's mistreatment of the women in his life.


Frida (2002)
Description: The film explores the life of a renowned artist, delving into her personal struggles, creative process, and the intersection of art and identity. It captures the vibrant and surreal visual style that mirrors the artist's own work.
Fact: Salma Hayek not only starred in the film but also produced it, dedicating nearly a decade to bringing Frida Kahlo's story to the screen. The movie won two Academy Awards for Best Makeup and Best Original Score.


Pollock (2000)
Description: This biographical film delves into the life of a groundbreaking abstract expressionist, exploring his turbulent personal life and revolutionary artistic techniques. The film's cinematography mirrors the artist's dynamic and chaotic style.
Fact: Ed Harris, who directed and starred in the film, spent nearly a decade preparing for the role, even learning to paint in Pollock's style. The movie won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for Marcia Gay Harden.


The Danish Girl (2015)
Description: This biographical drama focuses on the life of a pioneering transgender artist, highlighting themes of identity, transformation, and the emotional toll of living authentically. The film's visual style is painterly, with a focus on light and composition.
Fact: Eddie Redmayne's performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film is based on the real-life story of Lili Elbe, one of the first known recipients of gender confirmation surgery.


Big Eyes (2014)
Description: The film tells the story of a female artist whose work was fraudulently credited to her husband, exploring themes of artistic ownership and gender inequality. The visual style is reminiscent of the artist's distinctive, whimsical paintings.
Fact: The real-life artist, Margaret Keane, made a cameo appearance in the film. The movie marked a departure from Tim Burton's usual dark, fantastical style, focusing instead on a real-life drama.
