Widely known as the "Dutch Mona Lisa", "The Girl with a Pearl Earring" is universally recognized as one of Johannes Vermeer's masterpieces. After more than a century of study, the work still poses significant questions. Who was the sitter and was the painting even intended as a portrait? Why had it remained in complete obscurity until it was rediscovered in 1882 and sold for the mere pittance of a reproduction? Did Vermeer sell this painting during his lifetime? Many questions surround this masterpiece. Tracy Chevalier's novel is just one of the many historical tales that COULD HAVE happened to answer the unanswered.
All of the characters are strong in this well made, period piece. Collin Firth's most excellent portrayal of Vermeer, Scarlett Johansson as Griet, the Vermeer Family maid, Judy Parfitt as Vermeer's mother-in-law, Maria Thins, Essie Davis as Catharina, Vermeer's wife, and the disgustingly lurid, Van Ruijven is played aptly by Tom Wilkinson.
I won't give you a blow by blow of the story as you should see it for yourself. It is mainly about the unrequited lust and love between Griet and Vermeer, their eye for art, and the many similiarities that they share.
The cinematography, music, & lighting are TOP NOTCH and it's like watching a Vermeer painting come to life right on your TV screen.
You don't need to be an art lover to love this movie. If you like period pieces like, Emma, Sense and Sensibility, Valmont, Room With A View, House Of Mirth, and the like, you will enjoy this film.
Happy Watching!
