The Last Vermeer
(Sony Pictures Classics/Tri-Star Pictures)
By Lucas Allen
This year, the pandemic has put a heavy effect on the moviegoing experience, as well as the release of new movies. It especially affected this Oscar season, since the choices for whichever film takes home the awards are very limited. One movie that seems to be trying to take a crack at going for the gold is the historical drama “The Last Vermeer.” It’s inspired by true events as well as the nonfiction book “The Man Who Made Vermeers.” by Jonathan Lopez.
After World War II ended, Allied officials in Europe have started the process of eliminating any trace of Nazi occupation. In Amsterdam, Capt. Joseph Piller (Claes Bang), who was part of the Dutch resistance, is called in to look at a Vermeer painting, “Christ and the Adulteress,” that was sold to the Nazis. His investigation leadshim to an eccentric artist, Han Van Meegeren (Guy Pearce), who has a good reason for doing so, but cannot say. However, the Ministry of Justice sees him as a Nazi sympathizer and is ready to arrest him. So Piller and his secretary, (Vicky Krieps), risk themselves to hide the artist in the attic of their offices. Once there, Meegeren puts the Captain on a journey to slowly unravel this mystery to prove his innocence.
Soon enough, Piller finds himself on a trail to the truth with clues and twists at every turn.But as soon as the Captain learns the real truth, the Dutch authorities finally catch up to Meegeren and arrest him. This leads to an explosive trial that will decide the artist’s fate.
While it’s certainly a historical drama, the movie devotes much of its running time to being an art lover’s film. Especially when it’s all about the works of Vermeer, they do play into the film’s story while fans of fine art can appreciate their artistic value. The mystery itself gets more interesting the more the main character digs deep into this artist’s life. You see flashbacks of the artist’s lifestyle, but it also leaves you wondering if there’s any truth to it, which makes the character even more fascinating.
Though based on a true story, the movie takes some liberty and makes changes to such real-life events for dramatic purposes. But not many people may know the story, so viewers will be left feeling indifferent about how the film tells the story well. With that said, it’s still a nicely made movie with sets and costumes staying true to the authenticity of the time during the mid-1940s. The cinematography also does the job well showing the gritty and glum nature of Europe after the destructive war.
The acting is quite good for this kind of film, given a cast of internationally talented actors on display. Pearce gives a career-based performance in a role seemingly written for Johnny Depp if they had a bigger budget. Regardless, the actor brings his own mannerisms and charisma that works well for his character. Bang is serviceable enough to carry this film as does the rest of the cast trying his best to add drama and pathos to his character.
While far from great, “The Last Vermeer,” is a solid period drama that’s more appreciated for understanding the importance of art. Fans of World War II movies will likely be disappointed by the lack of battle scenes, but those looking for simple drama will find something to enjoy.
THE MOVIE’S RATING: R (for some language, violence, and nudity)
THE CRITIC’S RATING: 3.25 Stars (Out of Four)
