Daliland: “A towering performance”

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Daliland: A Review

Ben Kingsley, who was terrific as the man who shunned money and fame and only wanted world peace, now plays a character so opposite in attitude, outlook, and ideas that it’s hard at times believe it’s the same actor.

Salvador Dali was born in 1904 in Spain and died in 1989 in the same place. This biopic tells the story of his extravagant, outrageous, and controversial lifestyle through the eyes of his long-time assistant James (Christopher Briney), a young assistant keen to make his name in the art world. We are often shocked by the behind the scenes we witness. The film clearly makes the point that money and fame don’t provide real happiness as Dali is always looking for the next and latest thrill.

Set in the year 1974 the filmmakers do a great job of recreating the time and the sets, the costumes, and the makeup are all top-notch. As is Kingsley’s performance. He gives a towering performance which will surely gain him a nomination or two when awards season comes around. The film is quite heavy in tone and arguably could have done with a lighter approach, in common with Dali’s “devil may care” approach to life.

That said, the film is bright and colourful and moves at a fair pace as Dali, who is running short of money, struggles with a lack of inspiration in regard to his work.

I knew virtually nothing about Dali going in, and given that films do take liberties with the truth, I came out feeling much more educated about this important figure in the history of Art.

Main Photo Credit: Movie Insider/Magnet Releasing for publicity and promotional purposes.

Andy Godfrey

Andy Godfrey is a speaker with Outreach UK and has been in full-time Christian work for many years. He is a founding member of the Mark Kermode Appreciation Society and has a collection of nearly 3,000 movies. He’s also an ardent Bristol City fan.
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