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Van Gogh's biopic filmed in Provence

Watch the first trailer for 'At Eternity's Gate'

featured in News & reviews Author Ana Hernández, Provence Editor Updated

A year ago, we reported that Hollywood actor Willem Dafoe was going to play famous painter Vincent Van Gogh in a new film by Julian Schnabel. Its first trailer has just been released showing beautiful images of the Provencal countryside and the town of Arles.

The film, named after one of Van Gogh's latest paintings, tells the story of the painter's last days. It has been shot on location in the Bouches du Rhone region, more specifically in Arles, where he moved in 1888, and in Auvers-sur-Oise, which was his home from 1890 until he died, having been buried there. The Provencal landscapes played as the painter's muse, who completed over 200 paintings, as well as more than 100 drawings and watercolours, while he was living here.

Judging by the trailer, which you can watch below, it looks like cinematographer Benoît Delhomme has been able to capture Provence's picturesque landscapes and unique light to perfection. He has also replicated Van Gogh's bright palette by playing with the film's colours.

The trailer hints at some key points in the movie's narrative, including the visit of Paul Gauguin (Oscar Isaac), Van Gogh's famous ear mutilation incident, and his relationship with Dr Paul Gachet (Mathieu Amalric). The cast includes other big names like Mads Mikkelsen, Rupert Friend, and Emmanuelle Seigner.

The movie premiered at the Venice Film Festival just a few days ago and it has received rave reviews. Its release is scheduled for November 16th, 2018. In the meantime, you can visit the Fondation Van Gogh in Arles to learn more about the master's stay in Provence or enjoy a walking tour of some of the places where he set up his easel and canvas

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