Alec Guennis is hysterically funny as Gully Jimson, the British Picasso, an over-the-top artist whose blurry vision of life is expressed only through his paint brush, but his various dealings with the assorted eccentrics he encounters, whether wealthy clients, protégées, landlords or love interests. Guennis takes the plunge into a truly bizarre creature, whether taking over a wealthy couple's apartment to paint a huge mural (and watching the apartment be destroyed in the process) or an abandoned church on the verge of being demolished. Guennis reveals this man's quiet but raspy voice being stronger through his artwork, looking at every empty wall as if he were Chaplin in "Modern Times" busy with his wrench turning every knob or button which came into his sight.
While people who appreciate modern art might enjoy this more than standard audiences, it is always a pleasure to see Alec Guennis letting loose and going where no other actor would dare to go in such a bizarre role. He is surrounded by an exceptional supporting cast, and the film offers some breathtaking color photography and a delightfully sly screenplay.
While people who appreciate modern art might enjoy this more than standard audiences, it is always a pleasure to see Alec Guennis letting loose and going where no other actor would dare to go in such a bizarre role. He is surrounded by an exceptional supporting cast, and the film offers some breathtaking color photography and a delightfully sly screenplay.