The Price of Everything

The Price of Everything is a provocative, thought-provoking, and illuminating 2018 documentary film exploring the dynamics, ambitions and complexities of the contemporary art world. Prominent figures from the art scene, such as Jeff Koons, Paul Schimmel, and Larry Poons, provide first-hand insights, while the movie is directed by Nathaniel Kahn, best known for his Oscar-nominated architectural documentary "My Architect".

The film project unfolds like a conversational canvas, delving into the paradoxes and conundrums of art's relationship with commerce. From priceless iconic works in the highest echelons of the museum world to the ever-changing values and trends of commercial galleries and auctions, The Price of Everything attempts to decode the mystery and mystique surrounding the valuation of art.

The title alone is a play on Oscar Wilde's famous quote “that a cynic is a man who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing". It invites viewers to peer behind the curtain and venture into the inner workings of the art market. More than just a tantalizing exposé on the enormous sums of money that change hands, it scrutinizes the philosophical implications of art's monetary worth while tickling the viewer's curiosity about the age-old debate about the role of art in society.

Jeff Koons, sometimes controversial, yet undisputedly one of the most financially successful artists alive, provides a fascinating viewpoint. His reflections in the film serve as a revelation of the daily grind, innovation, and commercial drive behind his brand. His remarks inevitably force the viewers to grapple with questions about what justifies financial value in art and if there's a risk of an artist becoming too commercial.

Paul Schimmel, an esteemed curator, and former director of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, gives a counterpoint to Koons. His critical insights into the collector's psyche, the importance of public access to art and the role auction houses play in determining what's perceived as 'great art,' add a different dimension to the narrative.

A valuable contribution comes from the abstract artist Larry Poons who vanished from the art scene in the 70s, only to make an unexpected return. His personal journey contrasts sharply with Koons'. His seemingly physical, emotional, and almost spiritual engagement with art and his views on commercial success, provide a deep, introspective look at creativity.

The Price of Everything is interspersed with eminent art collectors, dealers, auctioneers, and critics who offer their perspectives. Names such as Gerhard Richter, Njideka Akunyili Crosby, and George Condo - artists who command extraordinary prices for their work - make appearances and discuss their views on the industry and their role in it.

The Price of Everything is not a criticism or celebration of the art-world's economics as much as it is an exploration. It maintains a balanced narrative, and that's where it charms. Viewers are left to formulate their own perspectives on the system's merits and flaws.

It's an intense ride, filled with work-of-art imagery and insightful commentary, focussing on the tipping balance between creative intent and commercialization. It exposes the point where creation and consumption meet, where art as expression is sometimes overshadowed by art as an investment or a status symbol.

The documentary also examines the phenomenon of 'art for art's sake' culture losing prominence. With its eye-opening interviews and vivid footage, it uniquely captures this heated matter. By confronting and questioning the commodification of creativity, the documentary challenges what we think we know about the valuation of art.

The result of this all is a visually elegant, intellectually stimulating film. At its core, The Price of Everything raises pertinent questions about the mystery and anomalies associated with the art world. A movie that can be appreciated by a wide audience, not just art insiders, it explores the nuances of the chaotic, dazzling, and incredibly mysterious world of contemporary art and the hotbed issue of price versus value.

Whether you are an art collector, an artist, a critic, or someone who simply appreciates art, The Price of Everything is an intriguing exploration of, quite simply, the price of everything in the modern art ecosystem. This is an art film that does not shy away from questioning the uncomfortable aspects of the art industry, offering a rare inside look at the mighty machinery that significantly shapes our culture's landscape.