RAPHAEL’S SCHOOL OF ATHENS, a detailed examination of The School of Athens, one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring monuments to the magnificence of the High Renaissance. By unveiling its rich symbolism layer by layer and exploring the elegantly subtle levels of meaning, viewers get a profound sense of the elaborately constructed beauty and harmony of this extraordinary masterwork by Raphael.
An absolute pleasure: the depth, clarity, and uncompromising intelligence of this account is beautifully done and carefully thought out on every level. In addition, the film lingers lovingly over the images to give viewers enough time to study and absorb them in turn. And what a marvelous final section, with its tribute to Vasari’s intelligence and understanding as well as the ever-stimulating open-endedness of the narrative.
– Ingrid Rowland, Professor of Renaissance Art History & Classical Antiquity, Notre Dame University
This film is very well done and offers a learned commentary accompanied by a visual eloquence that makes the School of Athens — along with its background and richness — come alive.
– Chris Celenza, James B. Knapp Dean, Professor of History & Classics, Johns Hopkins University
A beautiful, fascinating, thought-provoking film. I love the historical and intellectual history set-up and the reprise in the last section of the dovetailing of Renaissance humanism and theology plus the detailed exploration of what the Renaissance was a rebirth of and how Renaissance thinkers regarded Ptolemaic cosmology and astrology as compatible and scientific.
– David Essex, Curatorial Associate, National Gallery of Art, Washington
A rewarding, scholarly and very clear study of Raphael’s fresco, arguably the high point of the artist’s prodigious output and a work to rival Michelangelo’s Sistine chapel decorations. Very good in conveying the story behind the mechanics of the fresco’s creation, and how the details of the architecture of the former papal apartments play into its meaning, in concert with the complementary works on the ceiling, floor, and adjacent walls.
– The Guardian
The heart of the film looks at the fresco itself, breaking down the painting’s complex and intimidating images, stuffed full of symbolism and archaic references. It’s the combination of complex detail and user-friendly elements that makes the series unique while there’s room for fun, as the documentary points out Raphael’s love of visual quotations. It makes one appreciate how Raphael’s world shaped his art.
– The Reviews Hub
In Australia and New Zealand the film can be viewed on Vimeo and Demand, here: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/
Upcoming films include Sofonisba’s Chess Game, Bruegel’s Towers of Babel and Arcimboldo’s Four Seasons.
Please contact Irena Burton, irena@ideasroadshow.com, if you have any questions.
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