Artists Trail 2022 film: The Painter and the Thief

Kunstneren og tyven, Benjamin Ree, 2020, Norway, USA, Colour, 106 mins, Certificate: 15

“What do we humans do to be seen and appreciated, and why do we help others?”

These were the two questions Norwegian director Benjamin Ree identifies as his driving motor as he embarked on his exploration of the complex and extraordinary relationship the painter Barbora Kysilkova sought and nurtured with the thief Karl Bertil-Nordland who stole two of her paintings.

The two paintings may never be found but as these two people find each other against all odds, something amazing is captured on the canvas of this London Film Festival Audience Award winning documentary. Something deeply and profoundly experienced that escapes words but answers Ree questions and then some.

When the last direct gaze through the painter’s masterpiece of her male muse hits you just before the end titles roll, you will need a minute to collect yourself and pick up your dropped jaw.

Reviews:

“To get the desired emotional reaction, “The Painter and the Thief” proves able to deceive in ways that are best discovered for yourself. It works: In a genius final stroke, Ree pulls back to reveal the entire canvas, putting key aspects of this unconventional portrait into startling new perspective.” Peter Debruge, Variety

3.5 stars (out of 4) “It is an almost startlingly intimate film, following this strange relationship between these two, as they go through the challenges of life… Ultimately though, it was never really about the paintings, but the grace that came out of their theft…” Katie Walsh, Chicago Tribune

“There are no easy answers. The path to redemption is difficult and messy. The power dynamic between artist and muse is complex and unhealthy, even between these two people who harbour the best of intentions… Despite all that, this film leaves you hopeful, inspired even, Could such profound kindness and deep emotional connection exist out there for all of us?” Leila Latif, Little White Lies

★★★★ “In court, Kysilkova walked over and asked him why he stole her paintings. There’s an audio recording of his answer: “Because they were beautiful.” She invited him to pose for a portrait – after he got out of prison. So begins this astonishing, emotionally electric documentary about the unexpected friendship between artist and thief.” Cath Clark, The Guardian