X
- 2013
- PG-13
- Sony Pictures Classics
- 1 h 20 m
- 2013
- PG-13
- Sony Pictures Classics
- 1 h 20 m
Summary Inventor Tim Jenison seeks to understand the painting techniques used by Dutch Master Johannes Vermeer.
Directed By: Teller
Written By: Penn Jillette, Teller
- 2013
- PG-13
- Sony Pictures Classics
- 1 h 20 m
- 2013
- PG-13
- Sony Pictures Classics
- 1 h 20 m
Tim's Vermeer
76
8.4
Where to Watch
Summary Inventor Tim Jenison seeks to understand the painting techniques used by Dutch Master Johannes Vermeer.
Directed By: Teller
Written By: Penn Jillette, Teller
Where to Watch
Top Cast
Metascore
Generally Favorable
Based on 32 Critic Reviews
76
84% Positive
27 Reviews
27 Reviews
16% Mixed
5 Reviews
5 Reviews
0% Negative
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
Metascore
Generally Favorable
Based on 32 Critic Reviews
76
84% Positive
27 Reviews
27 Reviews
16% Mixed
5 Reviews
5 Reviews
0% Negative
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
An exquisitely fun documentary.
Like art itself, words can't fully capture what it is like to see the Vermeer emerge under Jenison's brush. Or to see Jenison's obsession with the idea run its course.
User Score
Universal Acclaim
Based on 20 User Ratings
8.4
95% Positive
19 Ratings
19 Ratings
5% Mixed
1 Rating
1 Rating
0% Negative
0 Ratings
0 Ratings
User Score
Universal Acclaim
Based on 20 User Ratings
8.4
95% Positive
19 Ratings
19 Ratings
5% Mixed
1 Rating
1 Rating
0% Negative
0 Ratings
0 Ratings
Super documentary about one mans obsession with recreating the art created by a Dutch master
The loved poured into the project comes through loud and clear in the film. Its interesting, informative and inspiring
Highly recommended
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“Tim’s Vermeer” is a documentary involving Tim Jenison, the noted inventor and visual arts entrepreneur, and his inquiry into the style and methods used by Johannes Vermeer who Mr. Jenison considers to be the finest artist of the 17th Century or, for that matter, any Century.
Jenision ‘s aim or goal is to answer the question: “How did Vermeer do it” and were optical assists used in the creaton of his art. With input from artists such as actor Martin Mull and artist David Hockney, under the able narration of Penn Jillette and direction of Teller, Mr. Jenison shares with the audience his scientific means of trying to discover and prove what optical devices were used by artist Vermeer under the same circumstances and limitations that faced Mr. Vermeer in the 1600’s. This is an absorbing film with Jenison sharing each effort, success and setback as he, although not an artist himself, seeks to create a Vermeer painting using the techniques he hypothesizes the artist used some 400 years ago.
This film is not only for art buffs, but for those of us ready to witness an inventor who, with tenacity and spirit, works tirelessly to achieve the desired result. I give this film an 8.5 and highly recommend that it be seen by as many viewers as possible.
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This thought-provoking documentary addresses the origins of Vermeer's photo-realistic art with all the suspense of a thriller.
Jenison, who had never painted a thing in his life, does indeed produce a beautiful work, but we should never forget that Penn and Teller are professional bamboozlers, and their attempt to re-frame the definition of genius might be nothing but smoke and mirrors.
It chronicles the quest of a self-described "geek," and there are pleasurable frissons of discovery in the detective work.
A fascinating documentary experiment in fathoming the heretofor “unfathomable” genius of Johannes Vermeer.
Shooting in unattractive, hard-edge digital, Teller condenses Mr. Jenison’s years-long pursuit into 80 glib, alternately diverting, exasperating and tedious minutes.
Anything narrated by Penn Jilette is, by definition, awesome. But this story is remarkable. Tim, unlike so many today, has an incredible can-do spirit & attitude. He doesn't give up when faced with obstacles. He doesn't whine. I'd love to see what he's up to next. And I'd love to see what his painting would go for on the open market. It's lovely.
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Inventor Tim Jenison developed a theory that Dutch Master Johannes Vermeer used some sort of optic technology to create his paintings. After interviews and research he sets out to create his own version of one of Vermeer's classics by working from a real environment. This is a fascinating concept and an amazing procedure that took years to realize. The documentation of the tedious final process is the only time the film starts to lag. Otherwise, it's interesting to anyone who enjoys an intriguing confluence of art and technology.
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Production Company
High Delft Pictures,
Sony Pictures Classics
Release Date Dec 6, 2013
Duration 1 h 20 m
Rating PG-13
Genres
Awards
International Film Music Critics Award (IFMCA)
• 1 Win & 1 Nomination
Satellite Awards
• 1 Nomination
Critics Choice Awards
• 1 Nomination
