As a movie experience, "Art is...The Permanent Revolution" is a bit more modest in scope than its title may imply. This incredibly low-key effort is undoubtedly a must-see for any artist that toils in anonymity hoping to take the world by storm. In many ways, though, it is two films in one. In the primary narrative, we are introduced to contemporary artists who are each working on a piece. One is a wood engraving, one is an etching, and one is a lithograph. The film starts these works at the beginning and as the film proceeds, we get an up close look at the process that brings the final products to fruition. Over it all, the artists lend a gentle commentary about any number of topics. Everyone is genial enough, but at times it seemed to lack focus. Interspersed with these interview segments are montages of artwork (from famous masters and/or uncredited artists) that generally unite in some social or political theme. Although there are occasional ninety second history snippets, these sections are largely unencumbered by any form of narration.
First, let me say that the movie has two primary selling points. One, it is a pretty solid exploration of these specific physical processes. If you have an interest in how this art is made, this provides detailed explanation. Second, it is an incredible showcase for art through history. As a virtual slideshow, I loved getting a chance to look at so many works. That said, I'm not sure that the movie would appeal to many outside the niche artistic market. It's almost too slight, too unassuming. What the two pieces of the film puzzle failed to do (for me) was to effectively and strongly bring in the social and political aspects that seem to be a major theme. When the contemporary artists discuss important historical figures, I thought it was interesting but I didn't always feel the real connection as "revolutionaries." I might have preferred really digging into the history of the subject instead of the spotty storytelling.
When the final works are unveiled, the film gets closer to bringing its disparate parts together. I don't know, though, I felt something was missing. I loved seeing how the works were made on the one hand, but I wanted a stronger thematic connection to the historical masters. "Art is...The Permanent Revolution" is an easy recommendation for those with a preexisting interest in the topic. And it does make an effective case that these specialties have been overlooked, to some extent, when judging the vital works through time (they simply aren't as accessible as painting, prints, etc). I'm not sure, however, that it is wholly successful as being as powerful and provocative as it might have been. When I watch a film with the tagline "Outrage in Great Art," I want something a little bolder to really get me thinking. About 3 1/2 stars, I'll round up for the amazing quantity of artwork on display. KGHarris, 8/12.
