This film, adapted from a work of fiction by author Tracy Chevalier, tells a story about the events surrounding the creation of the painting "Girl With A Pearl Earring" by 17th century Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. A young peasant maid working in the house of painter Johannes Vermeer becomes his talented assistant and the model for one of his most famous works.
Nominated for 3 Oscars. 17 wins & 46 nominations total
Top Critics Reviews
fresh:
A rare and elegant film bathed in the kind of soft, delicate light that can build unexpectedly to feelings of both anxiety and bliss.
– Rex Reed,
New York Observer,
21 Jan 2004
rotten:
A virtual ricochet-fest of eyeball action. Those looks, those glares, those gapes, those gawks!
– Steven Rea,
Philadelphia Inquirer,
22 Jan 2004
fresh:
A feast for the eyes.
– Richard Nilsen,
Arizona Republic,
29 Jan 2004
fresh:
Lavish attention to historical detail, the thorough immersion in this unusual world and Johansson's impressive performance make Girl With a Pearl Earring memorable but not a masterpiece.
– Connie Ogle,
Miami Herald,
30 Jan 2004
fresh:
Working from an intelligent, understated screenplay by Olivia Hetreed, director Peter Webber (an acclaimed documentarian) proceeds with a stunning assurance.