The
Next Big Thing (2014/Icarus Films DVD)
Picture:
B- Sound: B- Extras: D Film: B
Frank
van den Engel's documentary The Next Big Thing (2014) is an
insightful look at the mildly depressing current state of the
contemporary art world. With art pieces going for 30 million and
more, we get a behind the scenes look at high class art auctions and
intelligent interviews that outline the fact that the fine art world
nowadays isn't so much about the art itself, but more about the worth
and aura that these millionaires eat up.
The
documentary poses many interesting questions and outlines some of the
insightful trials and tribulations had by artists, dealers, museums,
and the increasingly expensive market itself. Thought provoking yet
short with a run time that just shy of an hour, the piece is a must
see for anyone who is interested in the art world. The film is
available for educational use (which would be great for college level
classes) and of course home video use as well.
The
film features interviews with artists Jeff Koons, Chuck Close and
Adrian Ghenie, top collectors Michael Hort, Thomas Olbricht and
Martin Z. Marguiles, and former Christie's N.Y. Chairman Amy
Cappellazzo to name a few.
Presented
in standard definition with a widescreen aspect ratio of 1.77:1 and
lossless Dolby Digital 5.1 mix that is up to standards for the DVD
format but could benefit from a high definition release.
No
extras - just previews of other films available from Icarus Films,
but worth seeing if you want something more or different.
-
James Lockhart
https://www.facebook.com/jamesharlandlockhartv/
