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Tribune News Network
Doha
STRENGTHENING its ongoing commitment to international film production, the Doha Film Institute (DFI) on Wednesday announced its latest co-financing partnership on the world's first fully painted feature film, 'Loving Vincent', a cinematic ode to the remarkable life of legendary artist Vincent van Gogh.
Commenting on the partnership, Chairperson of Doha Film Institute and Qatar Museums, HE Sheikha al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, said:"Films are very important means of creative and cultural expression. Its narrative and visual aspects make it a unique form of art that plays a crucial role in societies around the world. Films inspire and bring people together. They are much more than just a cultural phenomenon."
"We are especially delighted to support 'Loving Vincent', a film that is truly unique in terms of genre, content, approach and craft. It brings to life the profound and inspiring story of one of the world's most accomplished fine artists Vincent van Gogh, celebrating his life and works. At the Doha Film Institute, we actively explore opportunities to partner with such ambitious ventures that push the boundaries of film making. Combining art and cinema like no other film, 'Loving Vincent' will serve as an inspiration for emerging and established filmmakers and artists alike."
The film brings the paintings of Vincent van Gogh to life to tell his remarkable story. 'Loving Vincent' will have its world premiere at the 2017 Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, competing in the Festival's Official Selection for feature films. The DFI has been a long-term partner on the project since the early stages of production.
'Loving Vincent' is written and directed by Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman, and produced by Academy Award winning studios, Poland's BreakThru Films and UK's Trademark Films. Each of the 65,000 frames of the film is an oil-painting hand-painted by 125 professional artists who travelled from across the world to the studios of 'Loving Vincent' in Poland and Greece.
The film was first shot as a live action film with actors, who worked either on sets specially constructed to look like Van Gogh paintings or against green-screens. The footage from the live action shoot then becomes the reference for painting animators. The final effect is the interaction of the performance of the actors playing Vincent van Gogh's famous portraits and that of the painting animators, who bring the characters into the medium of paint.
Hugh Welchman said:"Despite the grassroots support from people around the world, it wasn't easy to find industry partners for 'Loving Vincent', as many film funders were too cautious to risk being part of something so new. Thankfully, we found some special and courageous individuals who believed in us. We thank Her Excellency and the team at Doha Film Institute for their support to this project that will not only entertain but also inspire and inform global audiences about the paintings and the life of Vincent van Gogh."
