Rembrandt

Rembrandt is a captivating biographical drama film released in 1936, powerfully chronicling the life of the revered 17th-century Dutch painter, Rembrandt van Rijn. Directed by the legendary Alexander Korda, a pillar of British cinema, the movie features the impeccable acting prowess of Charles Laughton, who dominates the screen as the titular character, Rembrandt.

The film sets the scene in 1642, at the zenith of Rembrandt's career, enjoying the bounty of life and the fruitful love of his wife Saskia, superbly played by Elsa Lanchester. Take note of the brilliant chemistry between Laughton and Lanchester, both in real-life matrimony that wonderfully transposes onto the big screen, giving viewers an authentically moving portrayal of the couple's bond.

As the movie progresses, it traces Rembrandt's trials and tragedies, tracing the arc of his life's work through personal and professional highs and lows. The narrative captures the defiance of societal norms, individualistic bravado, and humanistic drive that defined Rembrandt's artistic journey, channeling these elements at the heart of Laughton's powerful performance.

In Rembrandt, the audience is introduced to a multifaceted character - a loving husband and father, a comic raconteur, a passionate artist, and an individual with a rebellious spirit that often brings him into conflict with the established societal order. His artistry sets him apart from his peers, both for its beauty and its audacity, often bringing him at loggerheads with Amsterdam's governing regents.

After the death of his wife Saskia, Rembrandt's life takes a nosedive. He finds solace and companionship with his housemaid Geertje, portrayed skillfully by Gertrude Lawrence, leading to bouts of scandal, financial struggle, and legal battles over her maintenance. Rembrandt's financial circumstances worsen with time, and his standing with the bourgeois patrons dwindles because of his refusal to compromise on his artistic integrity.

One of the film’s strongest elements is its striking use of lighting and cinematography. Respecting the subject of the film, those behind the camera attempt to capture scenes in a manner that mirrors Rembrandt’s signature style. The use of chiaroscuro, the balance of light and dark, reflects the motifs found in many of Rembrandt’s paintings, which intensifies both the visual and narrative allure of the film.

Charles Laughton, a titan of the screen, delivers an exceptional performance as Rembrandt. His poignant portrayal of the tormented and complex character is a tour de force, exhibiting a vast emotional range - from tragedy to humor, from despair to resilience. It's Laughton who forms the emotional core of the film and carries it on his accomplished shoulders.

Lanchester also lends invaluable depth to the movie as Saskia, Rembrandt's devoted wife. Her character shapes many of the movie's pivotal moments for better or for worse, which Lanchester manifests brilliantly. Gertrude Lawrence as Geertje, whose persona stirs intrigue and tension within the plot, delivers an equally compelling performance that completes the film's core character dynamics.

Despite being a historical film, Korda's Rembrandt captures universal themes of creativity, passion, integrity, love, loss, and resilience in a human and accessible manner. The narrative illustrates the power of individuality and artistic expression, with each character and plot twist reflecting the complexities of life and human emotion.

In summary, the 1936 film Rembrandt is a masterful blend of biography and historical drama that pays homage to one of history's greatest painters. The film's exquisite sets, period-appropriate clothing, and an esteemed ensemble cast directed by Alexander Korda, beautifully render the life and trials of the famed artist. The towering performance of Charles Laughton gives the viewer a textured portrayal of Rembrandt, yielding a cinematic experience that resonates long after the closing credits.